How to Use Vasopressin

Vasopressin (also known by its brand name Pitressin) is an antidiuretic hormone. Normally, the body creates this hormone in the pituitary gland. The hormone affects blood vessels and kidney function, helping to regulate water loss in the body and raise blood pressure. In most cases, vasopressin is prescribed to treat diabetes insipidus, which is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to produce this hormone by itself. Vasopressin is normally given in an injection by your doctor or other health care provider.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription for vasopressin

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Instructions

The Steps

• 1

  Tell your doctor if you currently suffer from allergies or if you have had congestive heart failure, asthma or kidney disease, of if you normally experience migraine headaches or seizures.

• 2

  Ask about potential side effects. The most common side effects associated with vasopressin include stomach ache and nausea. Some individuals may notice a blanching type effect on their skin (a white or pale spot that remains on the skin after you press on it).

• 3

  Ask what dosage of vasopressin you are being given. Vasopressin is offered in intramuscluar and subcutaneous injections for diabetes insipidus. Adults usually receive five to 10 units from two to three times a day as it is needed, while children may receive 2 1/2 to 10 units three to four times a day as necessary. For abdominal distension, Vasopressin is given five units IM (intramuscular) followed by 10 units IM every three to four hours.

• 4

  Inquire regarding drug interactions. Vasopressin may interact and show decreased effectiveness of antidiuretic with use of alcohol, while those prescribed antidepressants may experience increased antidiuretic effects.

• 5

  Seek advice regarding what side effects may occur while taking vasopressin. Some of the most common include tingling or numbness in the hands or feet, trouble breathing, changes in skin color and lightheadedness or fainting.