ADENOSINE

Endogenous nucleoside (occurs naturally in all cells of the body)

Adenocard

Adenosine is a naturally occurring nucleoside

• 1. Slows conduction through the AV node
• 2. Interrupts reentry pathways through the AV node and SA node -converting SVT to NSR
• 3. Depresses automaticity in the SA node

Used in the treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) refractory to vagal maneuvers.

• 1. History of sick sinus syndrome
• 2. Second or third degree block
• 3. Known hypersensitivity
• 4.Bronchospasms associated with asthma

• Limited to duration of adenosine’s half life
• 1. SOB / Dyspnea; may cause bronchospasm in asthma patients (BHO).
• 2. Chest pressure / palpitations; may be acute in some patients for brief period.
• 3. Mild hypotension (decreased peripheral vascular resistance).
• 4. Dizzy / lightheadedness /headache
• 5. Nausea
• 6. Transient arrhythmias; (bradycardia, AV blocks,
• ventricular ectopy). These are generally not treated and are quickly self-limiting.

Adult: Initial dose 6mg rapid IVP followed by a 20cc saline flush. Refractory to initial dose may repeat X2 with 12mg after 1-2 min.

Peds: 0.1mg/kg rapid IVP followed by a 2-3mL saline flush. Refractory to initial dose may repeat X1 with 0.2 mg/kg after 1-2 min.

• Immediate, half-life <10
• seconds Special Information: (Concentration: 6mg / 2ml)