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The half-life of adenosine is less than 10 seconds and side effects of Adenoscan (adenosine injection) (when they occur) usually resolve quickly when the infusion is discontinued, although delayed or persistent effects have been observed. Methylxanthines, such as caffeine and theophylline, are competitive adenosine receptor antagonists and theophylline has been used to effectively terminate persistent side effects. In controlled U.S. clinical trials, theophylline (50-125 mg slow intravenousinjection) was needed to abort Adenoscan (adenosine injection) side effects in less than 2% of patients.

Intravenous Adenoscan (adenosine injection) should not be administered to individuals with:

1. Second- or third-degree AV block (except in patients with a functioning artificial pacemaker).
2. Sinus node disease, such as sick sinus syndrome or symptomatic bradycardia (except in patients with a functioning artificial pacemaker).
3. Known or suspected bronchoconstrictive or bronchospastic lung disease (e.g., asthma).
4. Known hypersensitivity to adenosine.

Last reviewed on RxList: 4/7/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.