Digoxin Level (Serum)
This test measures the amount of digoxin, a medication used to treat certain heart conditions, in your blood. It helps doctors monitor your dose to avoid harmful levels.
["Digoxin levels help ensure your heart rhythm stays steady while staying safe from overdose effects."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14698-5
- Short code
- Digoxin SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Digoxin SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- 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 doctor may order this test if you’re taking digoxin (Lanoxin) to treat irregular heartbeats, heart failure, or other heart-related issues. It’s also used to check if your dose is working properly or if you’re developing side effects. Some people get this test regularly to adjust their medication.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding, let your doctor know.
What the Results Mean
Results show how much digoxin is in your blood. Too little may mean your medication isn’t working well, while too much can cause dangerous side effects like nausea, vision changes, or irregular heartbeat. Your doctor will interpret results based on your health and current dose.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
The blood draw itself is generally safe but may cause mild bruising, soreness, or a small bump at the site. Rarely, reactions to the needle or blood loss can occur. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney disease, discuss this with your doctor before the test.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 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 like atrial fibrillation or congestive heart failure. Therapeutic levels (typically between 0.5–2.0 ng/mL) ensure the drug’s heart-protective effects while minimizing toxicity. Monitoring helps prevent complications like cardiac arrhythmias or digitalis toxicity, which can be life-threatening.
Short name
Digoxin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What happens if my digoxin level is too high?
Can I eat or drink 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