Terlipressin
Terlivaz is a brand-name prescription medication containing the active ingredient terlipressin. It is indicated for the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) in adults with cirrhosis and ascites, a serious condition where kidney function deteriorates rapidly in patients with advanced liver disease. Terlivaz works by causing vasoconstriction of blood vessels, particularly in the splanchnic circulation, which helps improve blood flow to the kidneys and reduces portal pressure.
Terlivaz is a brand-name medication used to treat hepatorenal syndrome in adults with cirrhosis by improving kidney function through vasoconstriction.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2612432
- Generic
- Terlivaz
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Terlivaz is indicated for the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) with rapid reduction in kidney function in adults with cirrhosis and ascites. HRS is a life-threatening complication of advanced liver disease characterized by kidney failure.
Terlivaz contains terlipressin, a synthetic vasopressin analog. It works by binding to vasopressin receptors (V1) on vascular smooth muscle, causing vasoconstriction in the splanchnic circulation. This reduces portal hypertension and increases effective arterial volume, which improves renal perfusion and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), helping to reverse HRS.
Terlivaz is administered intravenously in a healthcare setting. Common adverse effects include abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea, headache, and hypertension. Serious risks include ischemic events (particularly to the skin and GI tract), respiratory failure, and hyponatremia. It should not be used in patients with significant cardiovascular disease or uncontrolled infections. Pregnancy category C; use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus. Close monitoring of vital signs, fluid balance, and renal function is required during treatment.
Official drug label
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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 August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy