Digoxin Concentration in Serum (24-Hour Dose-Related)
This test measures the amount of digoxin, a medication used to treat certain heart conditions, in your blood after a full 24-hour dosing period. It helps doctors assess whether your dose is appropriate for your needs.
["This test helps ensure your digoxin level stays safe for your heart health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 3563-4
- Short code
- Digoxin>12h p dose SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Digoxin>12h p dose SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.5
- Ref high
- 2
- Critical range
- — – 4 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking digoxin (Lanoxin) to manage heart rhythm issues, such as atrial fibrillation or heart failure. It helps monitor whether your medication is working effectively or if adjustments are needed to avoid side effects like low heart rate or nausea.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The test measures the total amount of digoxin in your serum after a full 24-hour dosing cycle, often collected in a timed urine sample (though the slug suggests serum measurement here).
How the Test Works
Digoxin is measured using a sensitive laboratory technique (likely immunoassay or chemiluminescent immunoassay) to detect its presence in your blood. The test quantifies the concentration of digoxin, which can vary based on how much you’ve taken and how your body processes it.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are compared to a range that reflects typical therapeutic levels for your condition. Too little digoxin may mean your heart isn’t responding well, while too much could lead to side effects. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and adjust your dose if needed.
Reference range
Therapeutic: 0.5-2.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Digoxin levels are critical for managing heart conditions because it affects heart rate and rhythm. Therapeutic levels aim to provide heart benefits without causing toxicity. This 24-hour test helps ensure steady, safe dosing over time, reducing fluctuations that could harm your heart.
Short name
Digoxin Level (24-Hour Dose)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What do the results mean if they’re outside the normal range?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy