Adenosine

Adenosine is used in the treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and works by hyperpolarizing cardiac cells. Adenosine works by decreasing calcium influx and increasing potassium efflux from cardiac cells.  The conduction velocity decreases and the refractory period increases.  Adenosine is fast-acting and causes a brief symptoms of flushing, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom.  

Class Drugs

• Adenosine

Class Mechanism of Action

Activates A1 Receptors (G-protein coupled inhibitory receptor) in cardiac tissue

• Stimulates potassium channels, which results in hyperpolarization

• Reduces cAMP, which leads to inhibition of calcium channels

• Inhibits pacemaker current, which decreases AV node firing rate

These biochemical cascades result in:

• Decreased conduction velocity

• Prolonged refractory period

• Slowed AV node

Class Applications

Treatment of acute supraventricular tachycardia

Stress testing

Class Adverse Effects

Effects are brief (mediated by adenosine 2A receptors activation that leads to vascular smooth muscle relaxation) but may cause:

• Hypotension

• Chest pain

• Flushing

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Adenosine			"Den" "Nose"