Vasopressin is a octapeptide secreted by the posterior pituitary. It gets digested by tripsin when administered orally, hence the hormone has to be given by parentral route or by intranasal application. The liver and the kidneys are the site of catabolism. A small amount is excreted via urine. The plasma t1/2 is about 25mins. When given in aqueous form it has a t1/2 of 3-4hrs.

Vasopressin is indicated in diabetes insipidus, renal concentration test, bleeding oesophageal varices, haemophilia, Von Willebrands disease and before abdominal radiography.

Routes of Administration and Dosage

In pituitary diabetes insipidus in Adults: 5 to 20 Units injected IM or SC, every 4 hrs.In patients with bleeding oesophageal varices 20 units over 15 mins initially to control bleeding.

Contra Indications

It is contraindicated in hypersensitivity and vascular disease.

Precautions

Precaution should be taken in patients with migraine,epilepsy, asthma, heart failure, pregnancy, lactation and in renal failure.

Interactions

Clofibrate, Carbamazepine, chlorpropamide, urea, tricyclic antidepressant can potentiate the activity of vasopressin. Demeclocycline, lithium, noradrenaline, heparin, and alcohol decrease vasopressin's effect. Ganglion blockers can increase the sensitivity to pressor effect.

Brand Names

Petresin-Korea(Shree Ganesh).

Pharmacokinetics | Indications | Routes of Administration and Dosage | Contra Indications | Precautions | Interactions | Brand Names

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