Drug Card: Adenosine

Medication Name

Adenosine is the name of the drug used for treatment.

Generic Name

Adenosine is the non-branded name of the medication.

Trade Name

Adenocard is the commercial name under which adenosine is sold.

Drug Classification

Adenosine is classified as an antiarrhythmic medication.

Indication

Adenosine is used to treat paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

Half-life

Adenosine has a very short half-life of about 10 seconds.

Mechanism of Action

Adenosine slows conduction through the AV node by acting on A1 receptors in the heart.

Administration Route

Adenosine is not effectively absorbed orally and is given intravenously (IV).

Distribution

Adenosine is rapidly distributed in the bloodstream after administration.

Metabolism

Adenosine is rapidly metabolized in the body.

Excretion

Adenosine is primarily excreted as metabolites in urine.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to adenosine and 2nd or 3rd degree AV block (unless a pacemaker is present) are contraindications.

Side Effects

Common side effects include flushing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and transient bradycardia.

Dosage for SVT

The initial dose for SVT is 6 mg rapid IV push, with a possible repeat of 12 mg if needed.

Precautions

ECG monitoring is required during administration to check for arrhythmias.

IV Line

It is important to ensure the IV line is patent before administering adenosine.

Drug-Drug Interactions

The effects of adenosine may be antagonized by theophylline and caffeine, and enhanced by dipyridamole.