Acute Coronary Syndrome
Adrenergic Antagonists
Non-ST Elevated Myocardial Infarction
Tachycardia
Tachycardia, Sinus

Esmolol

Esmolol, or esmolol hydrochloride, is an intravenous cardioselective -1 adrenergic antagonist. This drug has received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for short-term use in managing supraventricular tachycardia, including rapid ventricular rates in individuals with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, and hypertension induced by intubation. Esmolol is a valuable emergency medication for focal atrial tachycardia, particularly in individuals experiencing active bronchospasm. Furthermore, esmolol has proven to be a safe and efficient medication for controlling blood pressure during surgery due to its short half-life. The drug is also indicated in cases of sinus tachycardia, where a rapid heartbeat requires immediate intervention, especially in the case of acute coronary syndrome. Esmolol is used in various settings, including urgent care, perioperative care, and postoperative care. This drug is used off-label for managing rate and rhythm in conditions such as aortic dissection, acute coronary syndrome, non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, hypertensive emergencies, thyrotoxicosis, refractory ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation resistant to defibrillation, and for mitigating the catecholamine response during electroconvulsive therapy. This activity focuses on the indications, mechanism of action, adverse events, pharmacology, monitoring, contraindications, clinical toxicology, and relevant interactions of esmolol. This activity also highlights the crucial role of interprofessional healthcare teams involved in assessing treatment approaches and treating patients with tachycardia and related conditions where esmolol is beneficial, considering individual patient needs and potential risk factors.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.