Description
IS THERE A LAB TEST TO MEASURE MY DIGOXIN LEVEL?
Yes. The Digoxin Lab Test evaluates the level of the drug in the body.
AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?
No.
WHAT IS THE PRICE OF A DIGOXIN LAB TEST?
$76.00
*Price may vary by location – contact your local ANY LAB TEST NOW®
DESCRIPTION:
Digoxin is a medication that is used to treat heart failure or an irregular heartbeat, also known as chronic atrial fibrillation. The drug works by affecting the minerals sodium and potassium inside the heart cells. The purpose of digoxin is the reduce strain on the heart and to help it maintain a normal, steady and strong heartbeat.
It is important to treat an irregular heartbeat to decrease your risk for blood clots, which may also reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke. The use of digoxin to treat heart failure can help you to maintain a normal lifestyle including the ability to walk and exercise, while ultimately improving the strength of your heart.
Monitoring of the amount of digoxin in your system is critical because too little will not be effective and you will still experience symptoms of heart failure of atrial fibrillation including fatigue, shortness of breath or swelling of the hands and feet. Too much can be toxic and cause irregular heartbeat, dizziness, vomiting or diarrhea, difficulty breathing or blurred vision.
WHY DO I NEED TO HAVE MY DIGOXIN LEVEL CHECKED?
Are you taking digoxin and experiencing unpleasant symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, dizziness or blurred vision?
Once you start taking digoxin it will take one to two weeks to reach a steady level in your system. Your physician will establish a dosage and make adjustments during this initial period. Over time you should be tested routinely to ensure that you are taking the correct dosage. Digoxin blood levels must be monitored because the drug has a narrow safety range.
A change in your health can affect the body’s ability to process digoxin and may require a change in dosage. Kidney and thyroid problems, cancer and stomach or intestinal illness can affect the level of digoxin and its ability to control heart symptoms. If you suspect that your levels are too low or too high you should be tested.
TEST DETAILS:
Normal Range:
0.8 – 2.0 mg/L
Each individual is different so results should be discussed with your doctor.
WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN SHOULD I SEE?
You should see your primary care physician or cardiologist.
OTHER RELEVANT TESTS:
People who take the Digoxin Test may also want to consider our Comprehensive Metabolic Panel or Basic Check Up.
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