Question

In ACLS which drug can be given following ventricular fibrillation after cardiac arrest other than epinephrine?

• A. Amiodarone
• B. Dopamine
• C. Adenosine
• D. Atropine

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), the primary focus during a ventricular fibrillation (VF) cardiac arrest is to restore a normal heart rhythm. The first-line drug used universally is epinephrine. Following epinephrine administration, if ventricular fibrillation persists, amiodarone is the recommended medication.

Explanation:

• Epinephrine: Administered initially due to its vasoconstrictive effects, which improve coronary and cerebral perfusion during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Amiodarone: Given when VF is unresponsive to initial defibrillation attempts and epinephrine. It is an antiarrhythmic medication that works by prolonging the action potential and refractory period in cardiac tissues, thereby helping to restore an organized rhythm.

Drug	Indication in VF After Cardiac Arrest
Amiodarone	Given after epinephrine if VF persists
Dopamine	Used in shock states, not indicated immediately in VF
Adenosine	Used for supraventricular tachycardia, not VF
Atropine	Used for bradycardia, not VF

Therefore, the correct drug to be given after ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest, other than epinephrine, is Amiodarone.