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Regular narrow-complex tachycardia — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyPharmacologyRegular narrow-complex tachycardiaFRCA Primary

A stable patient has regular narrow-complex tachycardia at 180 min-1 after failed vagal manoeuvres. Which drug is most appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Adenosine

Adenosine transiently blocks AV nodal conduction and is used for regular narrow-complex tachycardia. Ketamine is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Hydrocortisone is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Idarucizumab is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Desflurane is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. In Primary FRCA pharmacology, link the clinical effect to the receptor, distribution or elimination mechanism rather than memorising isolated facts.

Reference: Peck, Hill & Williams Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care; BNF; Primary FRCA textbooks