**Core Concept**
Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside used in heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Its therapeutic effect and toxicity are highly influenced by drug interactions that alter its absorption, metabolism, or elimination, particularly through changes in plasma concentrations.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Digoxin is primarily metabolized by the liver and its levels are significantly affected by drugs that inhibit or induce its clearance or alter gut absorption. Cholestyramine (A) binds digoxin in the intestine, reducing its absorption. Thiazide diuretics (B) increase digoxin levels by reducing renal excretion. Quinidine (C) inhibits digoxin metabolism and enhances its serum concentration. Amlodipine (D), a calcium channel blocker, does not significantly affect digoxin pharmacokinetics or metabolism, and thus has minimal to no interaction.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
Option A: Cholestyramine binds digoxin in the gut, decreasing its bioavailability.
Option B: Thiazide diuretics reduce digoxin clearance by increasing serum levels.
Option C: Quinidine inhibits digoxin metabolism and increases its plasma concentration.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Always monitor digoxin levels when co-administering drugs that affect its absorption or elimination—especially quinidine, thiazides, and bile acid sequestrants. Amlodipine is a safe choice in combination therapy without significant interaction.
✓ Correct Answer: D. Amlodipine
Free Medical MCQs · NEET PG · USMLE · AIIMS
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