Digoxin Monitoring

Digoxin is used in cases of congestive heart failure (CHF) with supraventricular tachycardia, and cases with reduced fractional shortening. It is not indicated in patients with pericardial disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with outflow tract obstruction, or restrictive myocardial disease, unless accompanied by myocardial failure or supraventricular tachycardia.

It is recommended to monitor electrolytes and calcium every two to three months or after any changes in therapy or changes in animal’s clinical condition. Hypokalaemia and hypercalcaemia can potentiate digoxin toxicity.

Species:

Dog, Cat

Specimen:

Serum  

Container:

Plain tube. Gel tubes are not suitable.  

Collection protocol:

Trough sample 8 to 12 hours post dosing. A fasted sample is preferred.

 

Reference(s):

Larry P. Tilley, Francis EK Smith Jr., Mark A Oyama, Meg M. Sleeper, Manual of Canine and Feline Cardiology 4th edition, Suanders Elsevier, St. Louis Missouri, USA, 2008 p305