Adenosine - 15126-3

Question 0

Adenosine - Action (5)

Answer 0

• endogenous nucleoside depresses Sinus/AV node activity
• Decreases conduction through the AV node and interrupts AV nodal reentry pathways that cause SVT
• Works at AV node and aberrant conduction pathways (WPW/LGL)
• Does not convert afib/flutter, but may transiently increase AV block to unmask flutter waves
• cleared from plasma in 30> seconds, half life is 10 seconds and may cause brief (15 sec) asystole

Question 1

Adenosine - Class (1)

Answer 1

• Antiarrhythmic

Question 2

Adenosine - Indications (1)

Answer 2

• SVT due to reentrant mechanisms

Question 3

Adenosine - Contraindications (2)

Answer 3

• Hypersensitivity

- 2/3 degree block, SSS (unless functioning pacemaker present)

Question 4

Adenosine - Side Effects (6)

CD BAMF

Answer 4

• CP
• Dyspnea
• Bronchoconstriction (rare)
• Arrhythmias (PAC/2/3 degree block, asystole, vent ectopy)
• Metallic Taste
• Flushing

Question 5

Adenosine - Precautions (3)

Answer 5

• pt’s taking stimulants (theophylline, caffeine, theobromine) may need higher doses
• transplanted and denervated hearts may need lower dose
• reactive airway disease increases chance of bronchoconstriction