PERceptions of Diltiazem Versus ADEnosine for Treatment of Supraventricular Tachycardia in the Emergency Department

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · Jul 22, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This study is looking at two medicines, adenosine and diltiazem, used to treat a fast heart rhythm called supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), which often causes sudden, rapid heartbeats and leads many people to visit the emergency room. While adenosine is usually the first medicine doctors try, it can cause uncomfortable side effects like a feeling of panic, flushing, or chest tightness. On the other hand, diltiazem doesn’t cause these side effects but can sometimes lower blood pressure too much, so it’s usually used as a second option. This study compares how safe and effective these two medicines are and also asks patients and healthcare providers about their experiences and satisfaction with the treatments.

Adults aged 18 and older who have had an emergency room visit for SVT and received either adenosine or diltiazem through an IV are eligible to be part of this study. People who are pregnant, unable to answer questions due to medical reasons, not English-speaking, or incarcerated cannot participate. If you take part, researchers will review your medical records to see how well the medicines worked and how safe they were. You may also be asked to complete a short questionnaire about your experience with the treatment. This information will help doctors better understand which medicine might be best for future patients with SVT.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. ED encounter for acute SVT
• • 2. Age \>/= 18 years
• • 3. Receipt of IV adenosine and/or IV diltiazem for SVT in the ED or prehospital setting
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Neurologic status precluding survey participation due to medical instability
• • 2. Pregnant
• • 3. Incarcerated
• • 4. Non-English speaking