Vasopressin
Brand names: Pitressin, Empressin
Vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) is a peptide hormone used as a vasopressor in vasodilatory shock and in the management of certain forms of variceal bleeding and diabetes insipidus.
ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.
Clinical monograph
How it works
It acts on vascular V1 receptors to cause vasoconstriction and on renal V2 receptors to promote water reabsorption in the collecting ducts.
Prescribing in practice
- Potent vasoconstriction can cause myocardial, mesenteric and peripheral ischaemia; use with caution in patients with vascular or coronary disease and administer in a monitored setting.
- Should be given by controlled intravenous infusion via a secure line, ideally central, to reduce the risk of severe extravasation injury.
- Use with caution in heart failure and conditions where a rapid increase in extracellular water may be hazardous.
Monitoring
Monitor blood pressure, fluid balance, serum sodium and signs of peripheral or organ ischaemia during infusion.
Counselling the patient
- This medicine is given in an intensive care or high-dependency setting under close monitoring.
- Report any chest pain, abdominal pain or changes in the colour of the hands or feet to the team.
Evidence & guidelines
Vasopressin is recommended as an adjunct vasopressor in vasodilatory shock in critical care guidance and the SPC.
Reference: VASST trial (NEJM 2008); Surviving Sepsis Campaign Guidelines 2021; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.