Digoxin effect
Also calledDig effect · Digitalis effect · Digoxin ECG effect · Digitalis repolarization change
Definition
The expected ECG changes in a patient taking digoxin: down-sloping ST-segment depression with a scooped-out ('reverse tick') appearance, flattened or inverted T waves, and increased U-wave amplitude.
Clinical noteThese changes also occur in patients taking digoxin without toxicity, so on their own they indicate the drug's presence rather than toxicity.
Sources
- Andrews P, Anseeuw K, Kotecha D, Lapostolle F, Thanacoody R. Diagnosis and practical management of digoxin toxicity: a narrative review and consensus. Eur J Emerg Med. 2023;30(6):395-401. doi.org/10.1097/MEJ.0000000000001065
- Pincus M. Management of digoxin toxicity. Aust Prescr. 2016;39(1):18-20. doi.org/10.18773/austprescr.2016.006
- Channer K, Morris F. ABC of clinical electrocardiography: myocardial ischaemia. BMJ. 2002;324(7344):1023-1026. doi.org/10.1136/bmj.324.7344.1023
Last reviewed 2 October 2026. Every definition in the EKG Dictionary cites the guideline, consensus statement or original paper it comes from.