What is the primary treatment used for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

Adenosine is the primary treatment for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) because it acts quickly to restore normal heart rhythm. It works by causing a transient block of conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node, which abruptly slows down the heart rate and can terminate SVT. This medication is particularly effective in paroxysmal SVT, where patients experience episodes of rapid heart rates due to abnormal circuitry in the atria.

Unlike other options, adenosine's rapid action makes it the first-line therapy during acute episodes of SVT, especially when the patient is stable but symptomatic. While medications like amiodarone, digoxin, and verapamil can be used in the management of various arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation or flutter and other types of tachycardias, they are not as effective in the immediate setting to convert SVT back to normal sinus rhythm as adenosine.