Digoxin
What this test measures
Digoxin is a heart medicine used in atrial fibrillation and heart failure. The level is measured because the effective and harmful bands are close together, especially in older people and in kidney disease.
Why doctors request it
Checked when a level is needed to guide the amount taken, when kidney function changes, or when side effects such as nausea or visual disturbance occur.
What commonly pushes it up
- Kidney disease
- Some heart and antibiotic medicines as a class
- A low potassium, which increases its effect without changing the level
- A sample taken too soon after the tablet
What commonly pushes it down
- Missed tablets
- Some medicines as a class that reduce absorption
- An over-active thyroid
Everyday reasons for a value outside the range
- The sample must be taken at least six hours after the tablet, ideally just before the next one
- Some labs use ng/mL, which equals ug/L
About the sample
At least six hours after the last tablet.
Upload a photo or PDF and see every line against the range your lab printed, explained in plain English. First report free.
Read my report freeThis is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.