Adenosine (Injection)

Introduction:

Adenosine (a-DEN-oh-seen)

Treats irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias). Adenoscan® is used in combination with thallium-201 for nuclear heart stress tests when the patient cannot exercise. Belongs to a class of drugs called antiarrhythmics.

Brand Name(s):

Adenocard, Adenoscan, My-O-Den

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to adenosine, or if you have low blood pressure, or certain heart problems. Talk with your doctor about what these heart problems are.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle, or into a vein.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using digoxin (Lanoxin®, Digitek®), verapamil (Calan®, Isoptin®), dipyridamole (Persantine®), carbamazepine (Tegretol®), or medicines that contain theophylline (such as Theo-Dur®, Slo-Phyllin®, Primatene®, or Quibron®).
  • Avoid drinking large amounts of caffeine (such as in coffee, tea, or some soft drinks).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant, or if you have a history of breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis).

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Chest pain or pressure.
  • Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat.
  • Light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting.
  • Throat, neck, or jaw pain or tightness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Breathlessness, or urge to breathe deeply.
  • Nausea, headache, or upset stomach.
  • Redness, pain, or swelling where the shot was given.
  • Warmth or redness in your face.
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