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Serum or plasma concentration of digoxin (digitalis glycoside)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of a heart medication called digoxin in your blood. Digoxin helps control heart rhythm and fluid buildup in conditions like heart failure.

Quick summary

["Digoxin levels help doctors monitor whether your medication dose is safe and effective."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87546-8
Short code
DENV IgG+IgM Pnl Ser
Synonyms
DENV IgG+IgM Pnl Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you’re taking digoxin to treat irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), heart failure, or other heart-related conditions. It helps ensure the medication is working without causing harmful side effects, such as low heart rate or nausea.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab measures the concentration of digoxin using an immunoassay method, which detects the medication’s presence in your serum or plasma.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to stop taking certain medications (like some heart medications) for a short time before testing. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per liter). Too much digoxin can cause toxic symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, or irregular heartbeat, while too little may mean the medication isn’t working properly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormally high levels of digoxin can lead to dangerous heart rhythm disturbances or other side effects, while low levels may indicate insufficient therapeutic effect. Regular monitoring is critical for patients on long-term digoxin therapy.

Short name

Digoxin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes my digoxin level to be checked regularly?
Regular digoxin level checks are often done in patients with heart conditions (like atrial fibrillation or heart failure) who take this medication long-term. Your doctor may also monitor it if you have kidney problems, as these can affect how the drug is processed in your body.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can usually eat and drink normally before this test unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Some tests may require fasting, but digoxin level tests typically do not.
What are the most common side effects of digoxin?
Common side effects of digoxin include nausea, vomiting, or visual disturbances (like blurred vision). If you experience severe symptoms like chest pain, fainting, or irregular heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy