Adenosine
Introduction To Adenosine
Adenosine is an anti-arrhythmic medicine used to treat life-threatening arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm). It restores normal heart rhythm by blocking abnormal electrical signals in the heart.
Adenosine is also used to carry out diagnostic stress tests of the heart. It is administered under the supervision of a doctor. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the medicine for you. The doctor may closely monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and ECG until you become stable. You should continue all your other medicines that are advised by the doctor for your long-term treatment even after this injection.
Common side effects of this medicine include flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck, and trunk), headache, chest pain, dizziness, and nausea. Consult your doctor if these effects bother you. This medicine is used with caution for some people. Thus, you must inform the doctor if you are suffering from any kidney or liver disease. Also, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and about all the other medications that you are taking regularly.
Uses of Adenosine
- Arrhythmia
Benefits of Adenosine
Arrhythmia
Adenosine is used to stabilize heart rhythms (particularly atrial
fibrillation). It helps in normalizing an abnormal heart rhythm, preventing it
from occurring in the first place, or slowing down the heart rate during an
episode. It is given as an injection by a doctor or nurse and should not be
self-administered. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get maximum
benefit.
Side effects of Adenosine
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Adenocor
- Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk)
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Numbness
- Chest pain
How to use Adenosine
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
How Adenosine works
Adenosine is an anti-arrhythmic medication. It regulates heart beat by blocking abnormal electrical signals in the heart.
Quick tips
- Food and drinks containing caffeine such as chocolate, coffee, and tea must be avoided for at least 12 hours before medicine use.
- Stop taking medication and inform your doctor immediately if you experience a slow heartbeat, severe chest pain, and very low blood pressure.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of fits or problems with your heart.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Adenosine if I’m pregnant?
Adenosine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Adenosine if I’m breastfeeding?
Adenosine is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
AlcoholCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Is drinking alcohol while taking Adenosine safe?
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Adenosine. Please consult your doctor.
DrivingNOT RELEVANT
Can I drive after taking Adenosine?
Not relevant, as Adenosine is intended for use in hospitalised patients.
KidneySAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Adenosine if I have/had kidney diseases?
Adenosine is safe to use in patients with kidney disease. No dose adjustment of Adenosine is recommended.
LiverSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Adenosine if I have/had liver diseases?
Adenosine is probably safe to use in patients with liver disease. Limited data available suggests that dose adjustment of Adenosine may not be needed in these patients. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does Adenosine lower blood pressure?
Yes, studies have shown that administration of Adenosine decreases blood pressure or causes hypotension. Therefore, it is advisable to inform your doctor if you already have low blood pressure.
Q. What vitals do I need to monitor while taking Adenosine?
Your doctor will advise you to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and oxygen levels closely while taking this medicine.
Q. What kind of food should be avoided immediately after taking Adenosine?
Food and drinks containing caffeine such as tea, coffee, chocolate and cola should be avoided for at least 12 hours before you are given Adenosine.
Q. How is Adenosine administered?
Why is it given rapidly? Adenosine will be given to you by a doctor or nurse as an injection in a hospital setting. It is given rapidly (over 2 seconds) into one of your veins in order to slow down heart beat and to restore it to normal heart rhythm.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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