Vasopressin (Pitressin)

Question 1

Drug Classification

Answer 1

Hormone/Vasopressor

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

V1 R agonist-> Works on Vascular smooth muscle cells, by second messenger release with G proteins, causing a cascade of reactions leading to release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Increased calcium leads to sustained contractions by VSMC, leading to vasoconstriction

Question 3

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 3

• Onset of Action- Varies
• Peak Effects- Varies
• Duration of Effects-30-60 minutes
• Half-Life- 10-20 minutes

Question 4

Indications/Field Use

Answer 4

Cardiac Arrest

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

None in cardiac arrest

Question 6

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Answer 6

Bradycardia, HTN, Minor dysrhythmias, blanching of skin, abdominal cramps, nausea

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adult
40 units IV/IO single dose only, to replace the first or second dose of Epi

Not for Pedi

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

May cause vasoconstriction of coronary arteries, increasing myocardial oxygen demand

Question 9

Drug-Drug Interactions

Answer 9

None in ACLS