Generic Name: vasopressin

How is vasopressin given?

Vasopressin is given as an injection under the skin or into a muscle. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. Vasopressin is usually given as needed every 3 to 4 hours. The time interval between doses will depend on how your body responds to the medication.

To treat diabetes insipidus, vasopressin is sometimes given into the nose by nasal spray or medicine dropper, or insertion of a cotton pad that has been soaked in vasopressin.

When used for abdominal x-ray, vasopressin injections are usually given at 2 hours before and 30 minutes before your x-ray. Your doctor may also recommend you receive an enema before you receive your first dose of vasopressin.

Vasopressin can cause temporary side effects such as nausea, stomach pain, or "blanching" of your skin (such as pale spots when you press on the skin). Drinking 1 or 2 glasses of water each time you receive an injection may help ease these side effects.

Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink during your treatment with vasopressin. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. You heart function may also need to be tested.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since vasopressin is usually given as needed in a hospital setting, it is not likely that you will miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a vasopressin overdose may include severe headache, drowsiness, weakness, pale skin, nausea, and stomach pain.

What should I avoid while receiving vasopressin?

Avoid drinking alcohol during your treatment with vasopressin. Alcohol can make vasopressin less effective.

What are the possible side effects of vasopressin?

Some people receiving vasopressin have had an immediate reaction to the medication. Tell your caregiver right away if you feel weak, nauseated, light-headed, sweaty, or have a fast heartbeat, chest tightness, or weak breathing just after receiving vasopressin. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Tell your caregivers at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• slow or uneven heart rate;

• gasping or trouble breathing;

• chest pain or heavy feeling, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling;

• tingling or loss of feeling in your hands or feet;

• skin changes or discoloration;

• swelling, rapid weight gain;

• feeling light-headed, fainting; or

• severe nausea or stomach pain.

Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:

• mild stomach pain, bloating, or gas;

• dizziness; or

• throbbing headache.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

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