Adenosine



Adenocard®; Adenoscan®







Adenosine

(a DEN oh seen)

U.S. Brand Names
Adenocard®; Adenoscan®
Canadian Brand Names
Adenocard®; Adenoscan®; Adenosine Injection, USP
Pharmacologic Category
Antiarrhythmic Agent, Class IV; Diagnostic Agent
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to adenosine or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have a slow heartbeat without a working pacemaker.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat a fast heartbeat.
  • This medicine is used during a stress test of the heart.
How does it work?
  • Adenosine decreases the effects of chemicals on the heart. It slows the heart down.
  • It opens up the heart's blood vessels so that they can be seen more clearly.
How is it best taken?
  • This medicine is given as a shot into a vein.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have asthma, talk with healthcare provider. You may be at risk for serious infection.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Adenoscan®: If you are taking aminophylline, dipyridamole, theophylline, or any medicine containing caffeine, talk with healthcare provider. These medicines can affect how well Adenoscan® works.
  • Adenoscan®: Do not eat or drink anything containing caffeine (for example, tea, coffee, cola, and chocolate) for 12 hours before using Adenoscan®.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Flushing.
  • Chest pain or pressure.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Headache.
  • Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over several minutes from sitting or lying position. Be careful climbing.
  • Irritation where the shot is given.
  • Throat, neck, or jaw pain.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Irregular or slow heartbeat.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • This medicine will be given to you in a healthcare setting. You will not store it at home.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: