Answered: How does digitalis result in an…

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)

11th Edition

ISBN:9780134580999

Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn

Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn

Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...

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Question

How does digitalis result in an increased contractile force of cardiac muscle?

Expert Solution

Introduction

The muscular system consists of three types-

Smooth muscle
Skeletal muscle
Cardiac muscle

Cardiac muscles are attached to the heart. The heart involves contraction and relaxation of muscles. Special compounds are involved in the contraction and relaxation of muscles.

Explanation:

Cardiac glycosides or digitalis are the compounds which are extracted from the plant Digitalis purpurea. Initially, digitalis was used to treat odema (weakening of heart). Digitalis compounds are the potential inhibitors of cellular sodium and potassium ions and ATPase. Digitalis has been renamed digoxin. The availability of digoxin toxicity reduces plasma digoxin levels.
Digoxin increases the efficiency of heart contraction and is used in the treatment of heart failure. It also controls the rate and rhythm of the heart. It increases the force of contraction of cardiac muscle by inhibiting ATP molecules and controls the movement of Na+ and K+ ions. An increased concentration of Ca+ ions occurs inside