The Role of Vasopressin in the Treatment of Vasodilation in Shock States

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To review the role of vasopressin in the treatment of vasodilatory shock.

DATA SOURCES:

A MEDLINE search on published reports (1966–April 1999) was conducted.

STUDY SELECTION:

English-language studies and case reports were selected and evaluated based on quality of review of vasopressin in the treatment of vasodilatory shock.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

In patients with end-stage vasodilatory shock, baroreceptor reflex is impaired and vasopressin stores are depleted. Persistent elevation of catecholamines may lead to down-regulation of β-adrenergic receptors and reduces smooth-muscle response to catecholamines, leading to inability of maintaining organ perfusion. Small-scale studies and case reports have demonstrated vasopressin's efficacy in maintaining blood pressure in patients with septic shock, cardiac arrest, and end-stage heart failure, refractory to other vasopressor therapies.

CONCLUSIONS:

Vasopressin may be a reasonable alternative for patients in vasodilatory shock. However, larger-scale controlled clinical trials are warranted before its routine use can be recommended.