Terlipressin

Generic name: terlipressin [ ter-li-PRES-sin ]
Brand name: Terlivaz
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (0.85 mg preservative free)
Drug class: Antidiuretic hormones

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 3, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is terlipressin?

Terlipressin is used in adults to improve kidney function in people with hepatorenal syndrome.

Terlipressin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Terlipressin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Terlipressin may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• blue-colored appearance in your skin, lips, fingers, or toes;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• chest pain or pressure;

• fever or chills, feeling cold;

• pain in your arms or legs;

• numbness or tingling in your hands or feet;

• bloody or tarry stools;

• weight gain, or swelling in your arms or legs; or

• hypoxia symptoms--restlessness, headache, confusion, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, anxiety, or breathing problems.

Common side effects of terlipressin may include:

• stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea; or

• respiratory failure, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Terlipressin may cause serious or fatal respiratory failure. Call your doctor at once if you have breathing problems.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use terlipressin if you have:

• low blood oxygen levels or lack of blood supply to the heart, arms, legs, stomach, or bowel; or

• trouble breathing.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• breathing problems;

• fluid retention;

• heart problems;

• blood circulation problems; or

• if you are waiting for a liver transplant.

May harm an unborn baby. Use birth control and tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using terlipressin.

How is terlipressin given?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor will change your dose based on the results of your kidney function.

Terlipressin is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider.

Your breathing, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely.

Store this medicine in the original container in the refrigerator away from light. Do not freeze.

Terlipressin dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Hepatorenal Syndrome:

Initial dose:
Day 1 to 3:
0.85 mg IV bolus injection every 6 hours over a period of two minutes

Day 4:
-If serum creatinine (SCr) has decreased by 30% or more from baseline:
0.85 mg IV bolus injection every 6 hours over a period of two minutes

-If SCr has decreased by less than 30% from baseline:
1.7 mg IV bolus injection every 6 hours over a period of two minutes

Duration of therapy: Until 24h after patient achieves a second consecutive SCr value of less than or equal to 1.5 mg/dL at least 2 hours apart or for a maximum of 14 days

Comments:
-Monitor oxygen saturation using continuous pulse oximetry.
-Obtain baseline oxygen saturation prior to starting therapy.
-Record the serum creatinine (baseline SCr) value prior to starting treatment.
-Assess serum creatinine (SCr) versus baseline prior to starting day 4 treatment.
-If SCr is at or above the baseline value after the third day of treatment, stop therapy with this drug.

Use: To improve kidney function in adults with hepatorenal syndrome

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your terlipressin injection.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid while receiving terlipressin?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect terlipressin?

Other drugs may affect terlipressin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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