What is the adult dose for atropine for bradycardia?

What is the adult dose for atropine for bradycardia?

• A. 0.5 mg IV/IO every 3-5 min up to 3 mg
• B. 1 mg IV/IO (MAX tot 3 mg)
• C. 2 mg IV/IO
• D. 0.1 mg/kg IV

Answer: (B)

Atropine speeds up the heart by blocking the parasympathetic (vagal) influence on the SA and AV nodes, increasing heart rate and conduction. In adults with symptomatic bradycardia, the standard approach is to give 1 mg IV or IO, and if the response is not adequate, repeat every 3–5 minutes up to a total maximum of 3 mg. This dosing allows you to titrate the effect while limiting anticholinergic side effects and the risk of tachyarrhythmias. If there’s no improvement after reaching 3 mg, other measures such as pacing or vasopressor support are considered. The other options differ in dose per administration and total maximum, or reflect pediatric dosing concepts, which is why the 1 mg dose with a 3 mg total cap fits the tested protocol.

Atropine speeds up the heart by blocking the parasympathetic (vagal) influence on the SA and AV nodes, increasing heart rate and conduction. In adults with symptomatic bradycardia, the standard approach is to give 1 mg IV or IO, and if the response is not adequate, repeat every 3–5 minutes up to a total maximum of 3 mg. This dosing allows you to titrate the effect while limiting anticholinergic side effects and the risk of tachyarrhythmias. If there’s no improvement after reaching 3 mg, other measures such as pacing or vasopressor support are considered. The other options differ in dose per administration and total maximum, or reflect pediatric dosing concepts, which is why the 1 mg dose with a 3 mg total cap fits the tested protocol.