Comparison
Carbetocin vs. Desmopressin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
37025-55-1
16679-58-6
Molecular weight
no data
1069.2 g/mol
Half-life
0.67 h
3 h
Sequence
no data
Mpa-Tyr-Phe-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-D-Arg-Gly-NH2 (Disulfid 1-6)Mechanism of action
Carbetocin
Carbetocin is an oxytocin receptor agonist with prolonged duration. It triggers a sustained contraction of the uterus after birth, preventing atonic hemorrhage — unlike oxytocin, without a multi-hour infusion.
Desmopressin
Desmopressin is a structurally modified analogue of the nine-residue peptide hormone vasopressin. Deamination at the N-terminus (1-deamino) and replacement of L-arginine by D-arginine at position 8 prolong the duration of action and render the compound largely selective for the vasopressin V2 receptor, while the V1-mediated vasoconstrictive effect is strongly reduced. Acting on V2 receptors in the renal collecting ducts, it promotes insertion of aquaporin-2 water channels into the apical membrane, increasing water reabsorption and reducing urine volume (antidiuretic effect). In addition, via V2 receptors on the vascular endothelium, desmopressin stimulates the release of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII from endothelial stores (Weibel-Palade bodies), improving primary haemostasis.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
1
4
of which in humans
1
4
Effects recorded
2
4
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Carbetocin and Desmopressin?
- Carbetocin is classified as "Research other", while Desmopressin is classified as "Research other". Carbetocin: Carbetocin is a long-acting synthetic oxytocin analog (half-life ~40 minutes). It prevents postpartum hemorrhage as a single injection. Approved in Canada and the UK among others, NOT in the US. Desmopressin: Desmopressin (DDAVP) is a synthetic analogue of the endogenous hormone vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH). Deamination of the first amino acid and substitution of L-arginine with D-arginine give it selective activity at the V2 receptor with strongly reduced pressor (V1) activity. It has been approved for decades for indications including central diabetes insipidus, primary nocturnal enuresis, and bleeding tendency in von Willebrand disease type 1 and mild haemophilia A. The principal safety concern is hyponatremia or water intoxication. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Carbetocin or Desmopressin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Carbetocin and "Human RCT" for Desmopressin. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Carbetocin and Desmopressin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Carbetocin — Prescription, Desmopressin — Prescription. United States: Carbetocin — Unapproved, Desmopressin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.