Indications & Uses
Vasopressin injection is used to raise blood pressure in adults with vasodilatory shock. When it is given early alongside norepinephrine in people with septic shock, it could be beneficial to patient outcomes. The conditions it is used in are post-cardiotomy shock and septic shock.
Pharmacology
In the kidneys, vasopressin acts on the V2 receptors on the cells of the collecting ducts. When it binds there, it prompts aquaporin water channels to be inserted into the cell membranes, and this increases the amount of water taken back into the bloodstream. Urine output falls as a result, and the body's water balance stays steady. This action is useful in conditions such as diabetes insipidus, where water retention is impaired. Pharmacokinetics: the onset of action is 1 to 2 min and the half-life is 20 to 30 minutes. Vasopressin is mostly metabolized, and only about 6% of the dose is excreted unchanged in the urine. Vasopressin injection is a synthetic form of the natural antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. Its main work is to regulate the body's water balance by controlling water reabsorption in the kidneys, and it also acts as a vasoconstrictor, which helps regulate blood pressure. The medicine is used in several medical situations, including diabetes insipidus, shock states and certain bleeding disorders. Vasopressin Injection USP is usually available as a clear, colorless solution for intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC) injection.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
For vasopressin, the dose is 0.01 to 0.03 units/min. Dilute the contents of the 20 units/mL single-dose vial with normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) or 5% dextrose in water (D5W) to either 0.1 units/mL or 1 unit/mL before giving it intravenously. Any unused diluted solution should be thrown away after 18 hours at room temperature or 24 hours under refrigeration.
In post-cardiotomy shock, the recommended starting dose is 0.03 to 0.1 units/minute. In septic shock, the recommended starting dose is 0.01 to 0.07 units/minute.
Side Effects
Common side effects Vasopressin can cause headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and increased blood pressure. Water retention and hyponatremia (low sodium levels) can also happen. Serious side effects Myocardial ischemia or infarction can occur because of vasoconstriction, especially in patients who already have heart disease. Severe hyponatremia can lead to water intoxication, seizures and altered mental status. The risk of arrhythmias is also higher, because of fluid shifts and electrolyte imbalances. Gangrene is another possibility. If extravasation occurs during infusion, tissue necrosis may develop at the injection site.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Electrolyte Imbalance Electrolytes need close monitoring during treatment with Vasopressin, and sodium most of all. If the body holds on to too much water, sodium can fall too low (hyponatremia), and this can cause seizures, coma or even death. Vasopressin-Induced Ischemia Vasopressin narrows the blood vessels, so it should be used with care in patients who have ischemic conditions, for example coronary artery disease or peripheral vascular disease. Extravasation Risk When Vasopressin is given intravenously, the drug must not leak into the surrounding tissues (this is called extravasation). Leakage can lead to necrosis and other serious tissue damage.
Contraindications
Vasopressin should not be given to anyone with a known hypersensitivity to vasopressin or to any of its components. It is also a problem in chronic renal failure, meaning severe kidney disease, or in any patient where fluid retention is contraindicated. In severe hypertension, vasopressin should be avoided in patients with significant high blood pressure unless there is an urgent need for it. In coronary artery disease, take caution, because vasoconstriction can worsen ischemia.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy (Category C): Vasopressin should be used only if the benefits justify the risks. There are no adequate studies in pregnant women. So during pregnancy, vasopressin should be given only when the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Be cautious when considering its use in pregnant patients.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Storage
Keep Vasopressin in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C. Leave the vial in its outer carton so the light can't reach it.
Common questions about Vasopressin
What is Vasopressin IV Infusion?
Vasopressin IV Infusion is a medicine that contains Vasopressin. It is made by ZAS Corporation. It belongs to the Antidiuretic hormone analog group of medicines.
What is Vasopressin used for?
Vasopressin injection is used to raise blood pressure in adults with vasodilatory shock. When it is given early alongside norepinephrine in people with septic shock, it could be beneficial to patient outcomes.
What are the side effects of Vasopressin?
Common side effects Vasopressin can cause headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and increased blood pressure. Water retention and hyponatremia (low sodium levels) can also happen.
Can I take Vasopressin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy (Category C): Vasopressin should be used only if the benefits justify the risks. There are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How should I store Vasopressin?
Keep Vasopressin in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C. Leave the vial in its outer carton so the light can't reach it.
Do I need a prescription for Vasopressin?
Vasopressin is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.