Adenosine

Question 1

Brand name of Adenosine

Answer 1

Adenocard

Question 2

Drug class of Adenosine

Answer 2

Antidysrhythmic

Question 3

Indications for Adenosine

Answer 3

Conversion of PSVT to sinus rhythm. May convert re-entry ST due to Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome. Not effective in converting atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or V-tach

Question 4

Mechanism of Action for Adenosine

Answer 4

Slows conduction through the AV node; can interrupt re-entrant pathways; slows heart rate by acting directly on the sinus pacemaker cells by slowing impulse formation.

Question 5

Contraindications for Adenosine

Answer 5

2nd or 3rd degree AV block, sick sinus syndrome, bronchoconstrictive or bronchospastic lung disease (asthma, COPD), poison or drug induced tachycardia

Question 6

Adverse effects of Adenosine

Answer 6

Headache, dizziness, dyspnea, bronchospasm, dysrhythmias, palpitations, hypotension, chest pain, facial flushing, cardiac arrest, nausea, metallic taste, pain in the head or neck, paresthesia (tingling sensation), diaphoresis

Question 7

Precautions of Adenosine

Answer 7

Methylxanthines antagonize effects, Dipyridamole and Carbamezapine will Potentiate effects of Adenosine due to up-regulation of the receptor sites

Question 8

Adult dose of Adenosine

Answer 8

6 mg rapid IVP (over 1-3 seconds) followed by a 20 mL NS bolus and elevate the extremity. After 1-2 minutes administer 2nd dose of 12 mg rapid IVP

Question 9

Pediatric dose of Adenosine

Answer 9

Initial dose 0.1 mg/kg rapid IVP (max first dose of 6 mg) followed by 5-10 mL NS bolus. 2nd dose 0.2 mg/kg rapid IVP (Maximum of 12 mg)