Understanding Adenosine (Adenocard)

So, recently, I was involved in a conversation, where the topic of Adenosine administration came up. It seems like there is a misunderstanding regarding its use and mechanism of action. Although this is not our classic ECG interpretation topic, I believe its worth talking about for a bit. Adenosine, a Class V antiarrhythmic from the Vaughan Williams Classification, is an Endogenous Neucloside, meaning, already present in the body. In the EMS system, Adenosine is known for the treatment of Supraventricular Tachycardias (SVT), however, the reality is that, Adenosine is responsible for many actions in the body at a cellular level, depending on which receptor it binds to. During excessive reentry tachycardias (SVT), Adenosine, in simple terms, is given to slow down the overall ventricular rate. Pharmacodynamics:   Adenosine binds to A1, one of multiple Adenosine receptors, which in the SA Node, it blocks L-type Calcium Channels and reduces Calcium influx, which may lead to a decreased firing rate, known as Negative Chronotropic Effect Same channels at the AV Node, decrease conductivity , known as Negative Dromotropic Effect, down to the ventricles. This is what we want to do during tachyarrhythmias, especially with reentry capabilities, to slow down the ventricular rate However, at higher or infused doses, such as during Cardiac Stress Test, Adenosine is given often as 60 mg over 4 minutes, not the typical administration for a reentry SVT right? When infused slowly, Adenos...
Source: EMS 12-Lead - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Adenosine Pharmacodynamics Source Type: research