Terlipressin

How it works

Releases lysine vasopressin, a vessel-tightening hormone, to clamp gut blood flow and divert it to kidneys failing in cirrhosis.

What it's made of

12 amino acids: lysine vasopressin, a form of antidiuretic hormone, with 3 glycines in front. It is a prodrug: tissues cut off the glycines and release the active form.

What it's for

Prescribed for

Hepatorenal syndrome with a rapid drop in kidney function, in adults and in the hospital. In Spain, also bleeding from esophageal varices.