Vasopressin for the treatment of neonatal hypotension
1All Children’s Hospital, FL 33701, USA. nnpdoctor@gmail.com
Abstract:
Vasopressin (pitressin), also known as arginine vasopressin (AVP), is an antidiuretic hormone formed in the hypothalamus and secreted from the posterior pituitary gland. Various forms of exogenous vasopressin exist and have been used in neonates to treat conditions such as diabetes insipidus. Vasopressin has also been studied on a limited basis for use in the treatment of catecholamine-resistant hypotension in vasodilatory shock. Hypotension is a significant problem resulting in increased morbidity in preterm, septic, and postsurgical neonates. This article will discuss the role of vasopressin and its use as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of hypotension in the neonate.
Related Concept Videos
Antihypertensive Drugs: Vasodilators
Adrenergic Agonists: Therapeutic Uses
Emergency and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) applications: Pressor agents increase blood pressure, heart rate, and contractility in shock and organ failure situations. Dopamine can induce vasodilation and stimulate adrenoceptors. Endogenous catecholamines are effective in treating cardiogenic shock. α2-agonists like clonidine can reverse anesthesia-induced hypertension.
Allergies and anaphylaxis:...
Hormonal Regulation
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Endothelin Receptor Antagonists
ETs are synthesized through a complex sequence of enzymatic steps, primarily involving an enzyme referred to as endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE). Of...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Hormonal Regulation of Blood Pressure
Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
The adrenal medulla releases epinephrine and norepinephrine, catecholamines that enhance and extend the sympathetic or "fight or flight" physiological response. These hormones escalate heart rate and the force of contraction while...

