Vasopressin
Also known as: ADH, Antidiuretic hormone, Arginine vasopressin, Pitressin
Neuropeptide hormone regulating water balance, blood pressure, and cognitive function.
Benefits
6
Conditions
5
Evidence
Extensive clinical use, FDA approved+ studies
Source
Synthetic nonapeptide
Gabriel Brain Score
Moderate
Overview
Neuropeptide hormone regulating water balance, blood pressure, and cognitive function.
Mechanism of Action
Binds V1 receptors (vasoconstriction), V2 receptors (kidney water reabsorption via aquaporin-2), and V1b receptors (ACTH release), increases blood pressure via arterial constriction, promotes water retention to concentrate urine, modulates memory consolidation and social behavior.
Key Benefits
- ✓Regulates fluid balance
- ✓Increases blood pressure in shock states
- ✓Treats diabetes insipidus
- ✓May enhance memory consolidation
- ✓Supports social recognition
- ✓Hemostatic effects (increases factor VIII)
Clinical Applications
Dosing Guidelines
Intravenous infusion
Intranasal (desmopressin analog)
* Dosing should be individualized. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Research & Evidence
Extensive clinical use, FDA approved
FDA approved for diabetes insipidus and as vasopressor. Well-established clinical use in critical care. Desmopressin (analog) widely used for bedwetting and bleeding disorders. Emerging research on cognitive effects.
Safety Information
Potential Side Effects
- •Hyponatremia (water intoxication)
- •Vasoconstriction (ischemia risk)
- •Headache
- •Nausea
- •Abdominal cramping
Contraindications
- Chronic nephritis
- Coronary artery disease (relative)
- Vascular disease
Interactions
- ⚠Enhanced by carbamazepine and chlorpropamide
- ⚠Reduced by alcohol and lithium
Quick Facts
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