Digoxin Level (Serum)
This test measures the amount of digoxin, a medication used to treat certain heart conditions, in your blood.
["Digoxin levels help ensure your medication dose is safe and effective."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75863-1
- Short code
- HEDIS 2015-18 Digoxin Level
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2015-18 Digoxin Level
- 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 to manage heart rhythm issues, heart failure, or other cardiac conditions. It helps monitor whether your dose is keeping your heart healthy without causing harmful side effects like low heart rate or nausea.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your lab uses a specific method. Bring a list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to share with your provider.
How the Test Is Done
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect digoxin levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Your provider will interpret the result based on your medical history, symptoms, and current medications. Too-high or too-low levels can affect how your heart functions.
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 like atrial fibrillation or congestive heart failure. Too much digoxin can cause toxic symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, vision changes, or fatigue, while too little may mean the medication isn’t working properly. Regular monitoring helps balance safety and effectiveness.
Short name
Digoxin
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are the possible side effects of digoxin?
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