Drug of choice for ventricular premature beats (VPC) due to digitalis toxicity is:
**Core Concept**
Digitalis toxicity can cause life-threatening arrhythmias, including ventricular premature beats (VPCs). The drug of choice for treating VPCs due to digitalis toxicity is a medication that can effectively terminate the arrhythmia and prevent recurrence.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Phenobarbital is the drug of choice for VPCs due to digitalis toxicity. It works by stabilizing the cardiac membrane and reducing automaticity. Phenobarbital also has a sedative effect, which can be beneficial in patients with digitalis toxicity who may be experiencing anxiety or agitation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Quinidine is actually a drug that can exacerbate digitalis toxicity and is contraindicated in patients with known digitalis toxicity.
**Option B:** Lignocaine (lidocaine) is used to treat ventricular arrhythmias, but it is not the first-line treatment for VPCs due to digitalis toxicity. Lignocaine can actually worsen digitalis toxicity in some cases.
**Option D:** Propranolol is a beta-blocker that can be used to treat certain types of arrhythmias, but it is not the preferred treatment for VPCs due to digitalis toxicity.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When treating digitalis toxicity, it's essential to remember that phenobarbital is the drug of choice for VPCs, and quinidine should be avoided at all costs.
**Correct Answer:** .