adenosine

trade name

adenocard

classification

antidysrhythmic

action

slows down conduction through AV node and lasts about 10 seconds

indications

to convert stable, regular Narrow Complex Tachycardia (SVT) to normal sinus rhythm. also Includes wolff-parkinson-white related SVT. helpful to diagnose rythymns because it wont stop v-tach.

contraindications

allergy, 2nd/3rd block, sick sinus syndrome, symptomatic bradycardia, drug or poison induced tachycardia, a-fib, aflutter, COPD and asthma patients

adverse affects

chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, dyspnea, flushing, sweating, headache, hypotension, blurred vision, nausea, numbness, impending doom, brief asystole (flatline), ongoing arrythmias, bronchospasms

dosage adult

SVT 6mg IV or IO rapid bolus 1-3 seconds quickly followed by 20ml saline flush. repeat at 12mg with similar flush in 1-2mins if needed

dosage pediactric

0.1mg/kg (max of 6mg) rapid IV or IO followed by a 5-10 ml flush of saline 

Repeat at 0.2mg/kg (max of 12mg) with similar flush if patient does not convert after first dose.

considerations

bronchospasms for asthma patients. brief asystole. fluid replacement in elderly