Digoxin infusion versus bolus injection in rapid atrial fibrillation: relation between serum level and response

Using available data on time-concentration and time-effect relationships in normal persons the results of infusion of digoxin in various time periods were simulated and compared with administration of digoxin by bolus injections, using a three-compartment pharmacokinetic model to which a separate small side-effect compartment was subsequently added. The validity of the simulations was tested in 11 patients with rapid atrial fibrillation. Serum digoxin concentrations, ventricular rate and side effects were monitored in a double-blind study comparing an infusion of 1.5 mg digoxin over 6 h with administration of three bolus injections of 0.5 mg digoxin 8 h apart. In agreement with the predictions of the model, the maximal fall in ventricular rate was reached after 8-9 h in the infusion group and after 19-20 h in the bolus injection group, without any detectable difference in side effects. There were certain discrepancies between the results of the clinical study and the predictions of the model, e.g. in serum digoxin concentrations, perhaps due to impaired clearance in the patients. However, it is concluded that the tested model is valid in elderly patients with rapid atrial fibrillation.