Terlipressin
Terlipressin
Terlipressin (pronounced: ter-li-PRES-sin) is a synthetic analogue of vasopressin, used in the treatment of esophageal varices and hepatorenal syndrome.
Etymology
The term "Terlipressin" is derived from the words "tertiary" and "lipopressin", indicating its synthetic nature and its relation to the naturally occurring hormone vasopressin.
Usage
Terlipressin is primarily used in the treatment of esophageal varices and hepatorenal syndrome. It works by constricting the blood vessels, thereby reducing portal blood flow and pressure. This helps to prevent or stop bleeding from esophageal varices. In hepatorenal syndrome, it improves renal function by constricting the renal blood vessels and increasing renal blood flow.
Related Terms
- Vasopressin: A hormone produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland. It plays a key role in maintaining the body's water balance and blood pressure.
- Esophageal varices: Abnormally enlarged veins in the esophagus, often due to liver disease. They can bleed and cause life-threatening complications.
- Hepatorenal syndrome: A type of progressive kidney failure seen in people with severe liver damage, most often caused by cirrhosis.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Terlipressin include abdominal pain, diarrhea, slow heart rate, and high blood pressure. In rare cases, it can cause severe allergic reactions.
Precautions
Terlipressin should be used with caution in patients with heart disease, kidney disease, or high blood pressure. It should not be used in pregnant women unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Terlipressin
- Wikipedia's article - Terlipressin
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