Generic name: vasopressin [ VAY-soe-PRES-in ]
Brand names: Vasostrict, Pitressin
Dosage form: intravenous solution (1 unit/mL-D5%; 20 units/100 mL-D5%; 20 units/100 mL-NaCl 0.9%; 20 units/mL; 40 units/100 mL-D5%; 40 units/100 mL-NaCl 0.9%)
Drug class: Antidiuretic hormones

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 29, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is vasopressin?

Vasopressin is used to raise blood pressure in adults with life-threatening low blood pressure when other treatments have not worked.

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

Vasopressin 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.

Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

• severe numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, pale skin, blue lips or fingernails, unusual skin changes (sores, tightness, discoloration, pain), especially in your lower legs or feet;

• unusual bleeding, any bleeding that will not stop, easy bruising, purple or red spots under your skin;

• heart problems--swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath, chest pressure, chest pain or tightness, trouble breathing, racing or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, slow breathing, irregular or uneven heartbeats;

• severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, gas, bowel problems;

• low blood sodium--headache, confusion, problems with thinking or memory, weakness, feeling unsteady; or

• kidney problems--swelling, urinating less, feeling tired or short of breath.

Common side effects of vasopressin may include:

• fever, feeling very tired; or

• dry mouth, increased thirst or increased urination.

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

If you receive vasopressin during an emergency, make sure any follow-up doctor knows you received vasopressin.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with vasopressin if you are allergic to it or chlorobutanol.

If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you've ever had:

• heart problems or coronary artery disease (clogged arteries).

If you receive vasopressin during an emergency, make sure any follow-up doctor knows you received this medicine.

Vasopressin can cause premature labor contractions. If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is vasopressin given?

Vasopressin is injected into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

You will need frequent medical tests. Your heart rate and blood pressure will be constantly monitored.

You may need further medical tests after you finish receiving vasopressin. You may need to restart vasopressin based on the results, or you may be given other medications to help treat your condition.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In an emergency medical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid while receiving vasopressin?

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

What other drugs will affect vasopressin?

Vasopressin can affect your heart and blood. Tell your doctor if you also use certain medicines for infections, depression or mental illness, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, or seizures.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• indomethacin.

This list is not complete and many other drugs may affect vasopressin. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

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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