IV Digoxin

Q: You wrote an order for intravenous (IV) Digoxin 0.25 mg. What is missing in this order? 

 Answer; Rate 

IV Digoxin should be given over at least 5 minutes. Rapid infusion of Digoxin (digitalis) may cause coronary as well as arteriolar constriction, which may induce cardiac ischemia or make it worse. 

 Also, it is not advisable to administer digoxin simultaneously in the same intravenous line as with other drips/drugs. 

 Another essential reminder - Digoxin level should be measured just before the next scheduled dose (trough) or at least 6 to 8 hours after the last dose, to allow adequate time for equilibration of digoxin between serum and tissue. 

 #pharmacology 

#cardiology

 References: 

 1. Digoxin Injection: Package Insert / Prescribing Info - link: https://www.drugs.com/pro/digoxin-injection.html (last accessed: August 12, 2025) 

 2. Greenblatt DJ, Duhme DW, Koch-Weser J, Smith TW. Intravenous digoxin as a bioavailability standard: slow infusion and rapid injection. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1974 May;15(5):510-3. doi: 10.1002/cpt1974155510. PMID: 4827467.