Which medication used for supraventricular tachycardia can cause sinus arrest?

Adenosine is known to be effective in the rapid termination of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) because of its ability to temporarily block conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node. When administered, it causes a transient sinoatrial (SA) node and AV node blockade, leading to a pause in sinus rhythm. This can result in a brief sinus arrest, which is a short period where no electrical impulses are generated by the SA node, effectively causing a momentary cessation of normal heart rhythm.

The rapid injection of adenosine essentially "resets" the heart's electrical conduction system, allowing normal sinus rhythm to resume after the blockage effect is resolved. This transient property makes adenosine both a therapeutic and, in some cases, a potentially risky choice in patients with certain underlying conditions. Understanding the pharmacodynamics of adenosine and its effects on the conduction system highlights its capability to cause sinus arrest in clinical scenarios where rapid control of supraventricular tachycardia is required.