Last Updated on October 16, 2022
Mechanism of Action
- Slows transmission across AV node
- It has only little effect on other myocardial cells / conduction pathways
Notes
• Adenosine receptors are found in the lungs
• Thus, adenosine can stimulate sensory nerve fibres in lungs to produce shortness of breath
• Adenosine causes bronchoconstriction
Indications
- Stable supraventricular tachycardia
Administration
Preparation
- Make sure patient has a large bore branula at antecubital fossa, with a 3-way stop cock
- 10 – 20 mL syringe with normal saline / water for injection
Administration
- Before administering IV Adenosine, warn the patient that the medication may cause transient shortness of breath / chest discomfort / nausea / flushing
- Straighten and lift up patient’s hand (the side of adenosine administration)
- Adenosine is given as rapid intravenous push, followed by 10 – 20 mL water for injection / normal saline
Dosage
Stable supraventricular tachycardia
- IV Adenosine 6 mg stat, followed by 10 – 20 mL saline flush
- If unsuccessful, to give IV Adenosine 12 mg stat 1 – 2 minutes later
Adverse Effects
- Transient unpleasant side effects: chest discomfort, nausea, flush
- Bronchoconstriction → shortness of breath
- Atrial fibrillation
Precautions
- Asthma