<P> Some textbooks suggest that calcium should not be given in digoxin toxicity as it has been linked to cardiovascular collapse in humans and increased digoxin toxicity in animal models . Recent literature questions the validity of this concern . </P> <P> Several medical treatments shift potassium ions from the bloodstream into the cellular compartment, thereby reducing the risk of complications . The effect of these measures tends to be short - lived, but may temporize the problem until potassium can be removed from the body . </P> <Ul> <Li> Insulin (e.g. intravenous injection of 10 - 15 units of regular insulin along with 50 ml of 50% dextrose to prevent the blood sugar from dropping too low) leads to a shift of potassium ions into cells, secondary to increased activity of the sodium - potassium ATPase . Its effects last a few hours, so it sometimes must be repeated while other measures are taken to suppress potassium levels more permanently . The insulin is usually given with an appropriate amount of glucose to prevent hypoglycemia following the insulin administration . </Li> <Li> Salbutamol (albuterol), a β - selective catecholamine, is administered by nebulizer (e.g. 10--20 mg). This medication also lowers blood levels of K by promoting its movement into cells . </Li> <Li> Sodium bicarbonate may be used with the above measures if it is believed the person has metabolic acidosis . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Insulin (e.g. intravenous injection of 10 - 15 units of regular insulin along with 50 ml of 50% dextrose to prevent the blood sugar from dropping too low) leads to a shift of potassium ions into cells, secondary to increased activity of the sodium - potassium ATPase . Its effects last a few hours, so it sometimes must be repeated while other measures are taken to suppress potassium levels more permanently . The insulin is usually given with an appropriate amount of glucose to prevent hypoglycemia following the insulin administration . </Li>

How does a deficit of potassium ions affect heart rate