Selected Medicines That Can Cause Cardiac Arrest with Asystole

One of the most serious consequences of cardiac arrest is asystole. It can occur in patients suffering from cardio-vascular diseases or during surgery following the use of certain drugs. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship between such use and the occurrence of cardiac arrest or asystole based on a review of literature identified in Science Direct, Web of Science and PubMed. Our findings confirm that a relationship exists between the use of certain drugs and the occurrence of asystole. Most drugs which induce asystole are used in cardiovascular disease, particularly beta-blockers, calcium L-channel blockers and potassium channel blockers. Medicine which can lead to asystole are drugs used, among others, for sedation during surgeries and intended for anesthesia; however, the relationship with asystole is not as clear as for the cardio-vascular drugs. Most patients who experience asystole during surgery after administration of the same drugs had other very serious health problems. Our findings are intended to support medical professionals in anticipating the possibility of asystole after drug administration.