Code Drugs

Emergency & Critical Care

Mark this drug class

Examples

epinephrineamiodaroneatropineadenosinecalcium chloride

Prefix / Suffix: No consistent suffix

Physiology

Cardiac arrest and unstable rhythms require rapid support of circulation, electrical activity, and reversible causes. Code drugs are used with high-quality CPR and defibrillation when indicated.

Mechanism of Action

Agents increase coronary perfusion pressure, treat arrhythmias, improve conduction, or correct electrolyte-related instability depending on the drug.

Indications

Cardiac arrest algorithms
Symptomatic bradycardia
Unstable tachyarrhythmias
Reversal of selected causes such as hyperkalemia or calcium-channel blocker toxicity

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

Tachycardia and hypertension
Arrhythmias
Extravasation injury with some IV drugs
Hypotension with antiarrhythmics
Medication errors due to urgency

Contraindications

Do not delay CPR or defibrillation to give medications
Adenosine: second/third-degree heart block without pacemaker
Atropine may be ineffective in high-grade blocks
Drug-specific allergies when known

Nursing Considerations

Know common code doses per current facility algorithm
Use closed-loop communication and repeat-back during codes
Flush IV lines after rapid IV push medications
Document dose, route, time, rhythm, and patient response
Continue high-quality CPR and rhythm checks as priority interventions

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.