Final answer:
Low levels of potassium, known as hypokalemia, can cause Digoxin toxicity. Hypokalemia occurs due to either a reduction of potassium in the body or redistribution and increases the risk of heart rhythm disturbances when taking Digoxin.
Step-by-step explanation:
When taking Digoxin, low levels of potassium can cause toxicity. This condition is known as hypokalemia, which is an abnormally low potassium blood level. Hypokalemia can occur due to either a reduction of potassium in the body or a redistribution of potassium within the body. Causes of an absolute reduction of potassium can include decreased intake, which could be related to starvation, as well as loss through vomiting, diarrhea, or alkalosis.
Hypokalemia can increase the risk of Digoxin toxicity because potassium and Digoxin compete for the same binding sites on the Na+/K+-ATPase pump that regulates cardiac muscle contractions. If potassium levels are low, Digoxin is more likely to bind to this pump, which can result in an increased risk of Digoxin toxicity and potentially fatal disturbances in heart rhythm.