Adecard 6 mg/2 ml (IV Injection)

Indications

• Conversion to sinus rhythm of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)
• Associated with accessory bypass tracts (Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome)

Pharmacology

• Sterile, nonpyrogenic solution for rapid bolus intravenous injection
• Slows conduction time through the A-V node
• Interrupts reentry pathways through the A-V node
• Restores normal sinus rhythm in patients with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia

Dosage & Administration

• Initial dose for adults: 6 mg given as rapid IV bolus
• Repeat administration if first dose does not result in elimination of supraventricular tachycardia within 1-2 minutes
• Pediatric dosages equivalent to those administered to adults on a weight basis

Interaction

• Effectively administered in the presence of other cardioactive drugs
• Use with caution in the presence of certain agents like Digoxin and Verapamil
• Antagonized by Methylxanthines like Caffeine and Theophylline

Contraindications

• Second- or third-degree A-V block (except in patients with a functioning artificial pacemaker)
• Sinus node disease such as sick sinus syndrome or symptomatic bradycardia (except in patients with a functioning artificial pacemaker)
• Known hypersensitivity to Adenosine

Side Effects

• Cardiovascular effects like facial flushing, headache, palpitations, chest pain, hypotension
• Respiratory effects like shortness of breath, dyspnea, hyperventilation
• Central Nervous System effects like lightheadedness, dizziness, tingling in arms, blurred vision
• Gastrointestinal effects like nausea, metallic taste, tightness in throat

Pregnancy & Lactation

• US FDA pregnancy category C
• Potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks

Overdose Effects

• Half-life of Adecard is less than 10 seconds
• Adverse effects are generally rapidly self-limiting
• Methylxanthines, like Caffeine and Theophylline, are competitive antagonists

Therapeutic Class

• Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)

Storage Conditions

• Store in cool dry place protected from light
• Do not refrigerate as crystallization may occur
• Solution must be clear at the time of use

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