Mode of action
Vasoconstrictor.
Indications
Bleeding oesophageal varices; Hepatorenal syndrome.
Specific considerations
Hypertension, atherosclerosis, cardiac disease: caution required due to vasoconstriction and fluid retention caused by
terlipressin.
Pregnancy: contraindicated; may stimulate uterine contraction.
Breastfeeding: safe to use.
Adverse effects
abdominal cramps, headache, increased BP, pallor
Dosage
Bleeding oesophageal varices, IV, 2 mg, followed by 1–2 mg every 4–6 hours until bleeding controlled. Maximum
duration of treatment 72 hours.
Practice points
monitor BP, fluid balance, and sodium and potassium concentrations
terlipressin is a pro-drug of vasopressin
Products
TERLIPRESSIN AMPS 1MG/ AMP (GLYPRESSIN®)
