Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

VASOPRESSIN - INJECTION

(VAY-zoh-press-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pitressin

Uses

Vasopressin is a hormone used to treat various conditions including: a condition of water imbalance in the body (diabetes insipidus), bloating after surgery, and bleeding due to diseases of the throat or stomach (e.g., esophageal varices, peptic ulcer disease). It may also be used to help diagnose problems with growth hormone release in the body.

How To Use

Inject this medication directly into a vein (IV), into a muscle (IM), or under the skin (SC), as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. To minimize side effects, drink one or two glasses of water when receiving this medication, as directed by your doctor. Also, consult your doctor or pharmacist about appropriate water intake while using this medication. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Nausea, diarrhea, gas, pale-colored lips, or stomach pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: changes in skin appearance, severe headache, sweating, chest pain, tremor, unexplained weight gain, unusually fast/slow/irregular heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, unusual drowsiness, blood in the stool, black stool, pain in the lower leg(s), seizures. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, heart problems (e.g., angina, heart failure), migraine headaches, high blood pressure, seizures, asthma, alcohol use, blood vessel problems (e.g., coronary artery disease, arteriosclerosis), any allergies. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: carbamazepine, clofibrate, lithium, epinephrine, norepinephrine, demeclocycline, heparin, alcohol, chlorpropamide, urea, fludrocortisone, ganglionic blocking agents (e.g., mecamylamine), drugs for water loss (e.g., furosemide, mannitol, ethacrynic acid), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include swelling and severe decrease in amount of urine.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects and response to treatment.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Discard any unused liquid.