Adenosine

Question 1

Adenosine - Class (1)

Answer 1

• Antiarrhythmic

Question 2

Adenosine - Action (5)

Answer 2

• 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 3

Adenosine - Indications (1)

Answer 3

• SVT due to reentrant mechanisms

Question 4

Adenosine - Contraindications (2)

Answer 4

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

Question 5

Adenosine - Side Effects (6)CD BAMF

Answer 5

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

Question 6

Adenosine - Precautions (3)

Answer 6

• 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