Comparison
Desmopressin vs. Enfuvirtid
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
16679-58-6
159519-65-0
Molecular weight
1069.2 g/mol
4491.88 g/mol
Half-life
3 h
no data
Sequence
Mpa-Tyr-Phe-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-D-Arg-Gly-NH2 (Disulfid 1-6)no data
Mechanism of action
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.
Enfuvirtid
Enfuvirtide binds the first heptad-repeat region (HR1) of the gp41 subunit of the HIV envelope protein. This prevents the conformational change required for fusion of the viral and cell membranes — the virus cannot enter the cell.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
4
1
of which in humans
4
1
Effects recorded
4
2
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Desmopressin and Enfuvirtid?
- Desmopressin is classified as "Research other", while Enfuvirtid is classified as "Research other". 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. Enfuvirtid: Enfuvirtide is a synthetic 36-amino-acid peptide and the first HIV-1 fusion inhibitor. It binds the HR1 region of the viral envelope protein gp41, blocking viral entry into the cell. Approved for treatment-experienced HIV patients. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Desmopressin or Enfuvirtid?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Desmopressin and "Human RCT" for Enfuvirtid. 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 Desmopressin and Enfuvirtid in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Desmopressin — Prescription, Enfuvirtid — Prescription. United States: Desmopressin — Prescription, Enfuvirtid — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.