Pharmacological conversion of AV nodal re-entry tachycardia with adenosine

Abstract

This paper reviews the current practice and guidelines in the pharmacological management of supraventricular tachycardia, in particular atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia (AVNRT). The discussion draws on guidelines from the Resuscitation Council UK and European Cardiological Society. Adenosine is a viable alternative to electrical cardioversion in circumstances where a rapid conversion of the arrhythmia is required.

Understanding the ECG. Part 3: Arrhythmias

“…The re-entry circuits that cause SVT are found either in the AV node itself (dual AV-node physiology) or involve an additional electrical connection between the atria and ventricles (accessory pathway). They are congenital conditions, although symptoms may not develop until later in life (Mullord and Sargent, 2011).…”