Comparison
Icatibant vs. Terlipressin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
138614-30-9
14636-12-5
Molecular weight
1304.52 g/mol
1227.37 g/mol
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
no data
no data
Mechanism of action
Icatibant
Icatibant competitively blocks the bradykinin B2 receptor. Because bradykinin mediates the vascular permeability, swelling and pain typical of hereditary angioedema, the blockade interrupts the acute attack.
Terlipressin
Terlipressin is slowly converted in the body to lysine-vasopressin by cleavage of the three N-terminal glycyl residues (reservoir effect) and activates V1 receptors. The splanchnic vasoconstriction improves renal perfusion in hepatorenal syndrome.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
1
1
of which in humans
1
1
Effects recorded
1
2
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Icatibant and Terlipressin?
- Icatibant is classified as "Research other", while Terlipressin is classified as "Research other". Icatibant: Icatibant is a synthetic decapeptide and selective antagonist of the bradykinin B2 receptor. It is approved to treat acute attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE). Terlipressin: Terlipressin is a 12-amino-acid vasopressin analog and prodrug of lysine-vasopressin. As a V1 receptor agonist it is vasoconstrictive and is approved for hepatorenal syndrome (FDA 2022, Terlivaz). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Icatibant or Terlipressin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Icatibant and "Human RCT" for Terlipressin. 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 Icatibant and Terlipressin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Icatibant — Prescription, Terlipressin — Prescription. United States: Icatibant — Prescription, Terlipressin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.