Terlipressin
Terlipressin is a synthetic vasopressin analogue used primarily in critical care settings for the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) and acute variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhosis. It acts by selectively constricting splanchnic blood vessels, thereby reducing portal hypertension and improving renal perfusion in patients with HRS.
Terlipressin is a vasopressin analogue used to treat hepatorenal syndrome and variceal bleeding by constricting blood vessels and reducing portal pressure.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H01BA04
- RxNorm
- 57048
- Generic
- Terlipressin
- Class
- atc-h01b
- Brands
- Terlivaz
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Terlipressin is primarily indicated for the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome type 1 in patients with cirrhosis and ascites, and for the control of acute variceal bleeding in patients with portal hypertension. It is typically administered in hospital settings, often in an intensive care unit, when other treatments are not adequate or available.
Terlipressin is a synthetic analogue of vasopressin with twice the selectivity for V1 receptors compared to V2 receptors. It acts both as a prodrug (converted to lysine-vasopressin) and has direct pharmacologic activity. By stimulating V1 receptors on vascular smooth muscle, it causes potent vasoconstriction of splanchnic vessels, reducing portal venous pressure and improving renal blood flow in hepatorenal syndrome.
Terlipressin should only be administered in settings where cardiac monitoring and appropriate medical support are available. Common adverse effects include hypertension, bradycardia, abdominal cramps, and potential ischemic complications. It is contraindicated in patients with severe cardiovascular disease or uncontrolled hypertension. Close monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and fluid balance is essential during treatment. Pregnancy category is not established; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy