What it is used for
- Restoring normal rhythm in selected supraventricular tachycardias
- Helping diagnose selected regular broad-complex tachycardias
- Producing temporary coronary vasodilation during cardiac perfusion testing
How it is used
- It is given only by a healthcare professional through a vein where cardiac monitoring and resuscitation are available
- Rapid injection and cardiac testing use different administration methods selected by the team
- Tell the team about asthma, heart disease, seizures, all medicines and stimulants
- Follow instructions about avoiding caffeine and medicines before a cardiac test
Possible side effects
- Flushing or headache
- Chest pressure, pain or palpitations
- Breathlessness or an urge to breathe deeply
- Dizziness, nausea or a feeling of apprehension
- Rarely, profound bradycardia, cardiac arrest, a dangerous arrhythmia or seizure
Who should not use it
- Selected heart-conduction disorders or sick-sinus syndrome without a suitable pacemaker
- Active asthma or severe bronchospasm
- Allergy to adenosine or any ingredient
- Uncorrected severe low blood pressure
Before and while using it
- It can cause transient cardiac arrest or a dangerous rhythm, so resuscitation must be immediately available
- It can cause severe bronchospasm, particularly in people with asthma
- Tell the team immediately about severe chest pain, sudden weakness, breathing difficulty or neurological symptoms
- Seizures can occur and any epilepsy history must be disclosed
- Perfusion-test risks differ from rapid injection for tachycardia, and the team must select the correct product
Medicine interactions
- Caffeine and theophylline can reduce its effect
- Dipyridamole can greatly increase its effect
- Carbamazepine can increase slowing of heart conduction
- Medicines affecting heart rhythm or blood pressure need review before use
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Tell the team if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; it is used when the benefit of the procedure or treatment outweighs expected risks
How to store it
- It is stored and prepared by the hospital according to the product instructions and not used if the solution is not clear
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.