Adenosine needs to be pushed fast because it has a very short half-life.
Here's why rapid administration is crucial:
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Rapid Metabolism: The half-life of adenosine is measured in seconds. This means it's broken down very quickly in the bloodstream.
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Reaching the Site of Action: To ensure enough adenosine reaches the heart to have the desired effect (e.g., slowing down a rapid heart rate), it must be administered quickly.
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Saline Flush: Rapid injection is followed immediately by a 20 mL saline flush. This helps to push the adenosine into the central circulation quickly before it is metabolized.
In summary, due to its extremely short half-life, adenosine must be administered rapidly, followed by a saline flush, to ensure it reaches its target in the heart before it's broken down.
