[Epidemiological surveillance of patients treated with digoxin]

In the present study we assess that the etiology of digitalis intoxication. We try to identify factors and intensity of each association. One thousand fifty patients form Havana City, Cuba were selected, under digitalis therapy. Two groups were made Cases and Controls. Each patient was evaluated by direct interview. There was a significative association (P < 0.01) among digitalis intoxication and; older persons who use high doses of digoxin, other risk factors were underweight, lack of potassium supplement, some associated diseases, combination therapy between digoxin, and furosemide, thyazides, dipyridamole, amiodarone, quinidine, nifedipine or verapamil, cigar smoking, alcohol intake and prior history of digitalis intoxication. The odds ratio (OR) was calculated for each association. We conclude: some factors are responsible for digitalis intoxication, each one contribute partially.