What is the initial dose of adenosine for treating supraventricular tachycardia?

The initial dose of adenosine for treating supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is 6 mg administered via rapid intravenous (IV) push. Adenosine is a medication used to restore a normal heart rhythm for certain types of tachycardias, particularly those originating from above the ventricles.

Administering adenosine rapidly is critical, as it allows for the quick action of the drug, which works by slowing down the electrical conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node and interrupting reentrant pathways, thereby helping to restore normal sinus rhythm. The choice of 6 mg as the initial dose is supported by clinical guidelines, which recommend this amount to effectively address the arrhythmia in many patients.

If the initial dose does not convert the rhythm, it's common practice to follow up with a second dose, typically of 12 mg, if needed. Therefore, the 6 mg dose as a rapid IV push is essential in the emergency management of SVT to achieve rapid effects and provide timely care for the patient.