Adenosine

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Adenosine

Adenocard

Machanism of Action

Naturally occurring nucleoside that decreases conduction through the AV node and interrupts AV and SA re-entry pathways thus restoring normal sinus rhythm in patients with SVT

Indications

SVT refractory to Vagal maneuvers including Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW)

Contraindications

2nd and 3rd Degree AV heart blocks, symptomatic Bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, hypersensitivity

Precautions

Place patient in Semi-Fowler position as patients will typically develop arrhythmias at the time of conversionUse caution in patients with Asthma

Side Effects

Syncope, dizziness, dyspnea, N/V, headaches, palpitations, chest pain, hypotention and dysrhythmiasSide effects are usually self-limiting due to short half-life

Interactions

Patients taking caffeine or xanthines (aminophylline or theophylline) may require larger doses as these drugs antagonize adenosine. Patients on dipyridamole(Persantine) and carbamazepine (tegretol) may need smaller doses of adenosine as these drugs poten

Dosage and Route

Adult: 6 mg rapid IVP followed by 10-20ml NS flush (if no conversion after 1-2 min administer) 12mg rapid IVP followed by 10-20ml NS flush (if no conversion after 1-2 min administer) Repeat 12mg rapid IVP followed by 10-20 ml NS flush