Adenosine — Clinical Use

Cardiology

Short-acting AV node blocker (t½ ≈ 10 sec).

Management

  • SVT termination: 6 mg IV rapid push into large vein with 20 mL flush, then 12 mg, then 18 mg
  • Diagnostic in wide-complex tachy of unclear origin

Complications

  • Transient asystole (warn patient)
  • Bronchospasm — avoid in asthma
  • Flushing, chest pain, dyspnoea
  • Prolonged effect if dipyridamole or transplant heart (halve dose)

Related in WardRound

Educational — verify locally.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds