Adenosine injection

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What is adenosine injection?

ADENOSINE (Adenocard®) is an antiarrhythmic agent. Adenosine can help the heart to beat regularly when you have a particular type of rapid heartbeat called supraventricular tachycardia. It is not effective when a rapid heartbeat is caused by other problems. Generic adenosine injections are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• asthma
• heart problems other than supraventricular tachycardia
• an unusual or allergic reaction to adenosine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Adenosine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health-care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What drug(s) may interact with adenosine?

• caffeine
• carbamazepine
• dipyridamole
• guarana
• theophylline

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking adenosine?

You may get dizzy; to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you more dizzy, increase flushing and rapid heartbeats. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving adenosine?

Side effects can be mild and temporary because the drug is active in the body only for a short time.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• chest pain, palpitations
• difficulty breathing
• severe headache

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• chest tightness
• dizziness, or lightheadedness
• flushing
• headache
• nausea, vomiting
• tingling in arms, numbness

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not refrigerate. If crystals appear, warm to room temperature and only use if the solution is clear. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused portion.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.