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Digoxin Test

Digoxin monitoring is a vital component of managing your prescribed heart medication. Due to its narrow therapeutic window, regular blood level checks are essential to ensure your treatment remains both safe and effective.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in ug/l
Result Value (ug/l)
Subtherapeutic < 0,8
Therapeutic 0,8–2
Above therapeutic range ≥ 2

Trough level. Range for atrial fibrillation; in heart failure a lower target of 0.5–0.9 µg/l applies. Toxic: > 2.0 µg/l.

Source: UMC Utrecht

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Digoxin: what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of digoxin in your blood. It ensures that the dose prescribed by your doctor maintains therapeutic levels to effectively manage your heart condition while minimising the risk of toxicity.

Digoxin: why this value matters

Digoxin has one of the narrowest therapeutic windows of any medication. The difference between an effective and a toxic dose is small. Levels that are too low may not adequately control your heart condition, while even slightly elevated levels can be associated with serious and potentially life-threatening side effects.

Digoxin: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €49,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Digoxin: how to prepare

  1. Draw just before your next dose

    Required

    A drug level is measured just before your next dose. If you take it at a fixed time each day, have the blood drawn just before then. For lithium, at least 12 hours after the last dose.

  • Water is always fine. Drink as usual beforehand, it makes the draw easier.
  • Take your usual medication, unless your own doctor told you otherwise.

Digoxin: when is testing worthwhile?

Your doctor may request this test when starting digoxin, after dose adjustments, when kidney function changes, if toxicity symptoms appear, or when other medications are added that may interact with digoxin. Regular monitoring is standard practice during ongoing treatment.

Digoxin: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Levels below the therapeutic range may indicate subtherapeutic dosing, meaning the medication may not be providing adequate control of your heart condition. This can be associated with worsening heart failure symptoms or return of arrhythmia. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

High Levels

Levels above the therapeutic range may indicate a risk of digoxin toxicity. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances (such as yellow-green vision or halos), confusion, and dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Digoxin: lifestyle and this value

Take digoxin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Maintain consistent potassium levels through a balanced diet, as low potassium can increase digoxin sensitivity. Inform your doctor of all other medications and supplements, especially diuretics. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.

Digoxin: frequently asked questions

Why is digoxin monitoring so important?

Digoxin has a very narrow therapeutic window, meaning the margin between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. Regular monitoring helps your doctor keep your levels in the safe and effective range.

Can potassium levels affect digoxin safety?

Yes, low potassium levels (hypokalaemia) can increase your sensitivity to digoxin, raising the risk of toxicity even when digoxin levels appear to be within range. Your doctor may monitor your potassium levels alongside digoxin.

What should I do if I suspect digoxin toxicity?

If you experience nausea, vision changes, confusion, or an irregular heartbeat while taking digoxin, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately. Do not stop taking the medication without medical advice, but prompt evaluation is essential.

Digoxin: sources

  1. UMC Utrecht, Divisie Laboratoria en Apotheek. Bepalingenwijzer: therapeutische geneesmiddelspiegels (amitriptyline, nortriptyline, carbamazepine, valproïnezuur, fenytoïne, digoxine, lamotrigine). Geraadpleegd 14 juli 2026. (retrieved 2026) umcutrecht.nl

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Medical standards

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Medical policy
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Digoxin

€49,-