Comparison
Sincalide vs. Terlipressin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
25126-32-3
14636-12-5
Molecular weight
1143.29 g/mol
1227.37 g/mol
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
Asp-Tyr(SO3H)-Met-Gly-Trp-Met-Asp-Phe-NH2no data
Mechanism of action
Sincalide
Sincalide activates CCK receptors, triggering gallbladder contraction and pancreatic enzyme secretion. This effect is used diagnostically to measure the gallbladder ejection fraction (e.g. in HIDA scintigraphy).
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 trial
Human RCT
Studies
0
1
of which in humans
0
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 Sincalide and Terlipressin?
- Sincalide is classified as "Research other", while Terlipressin is classified as "Research other". Sincalide: Sincalide is the synthetic C-terminal octapeptide of the hormone cholecystokinin (CCK-8). As Kinevac it is FDA-approved to stimulate gallbladder contraction for diagnostic imaging. 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, Sincalide or Terlipressin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Sincalide 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 Sincalide and Terlipressin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Sincalide — Unclear, Terlipressin — Prescription. United States: Sincalide — Prescription, Terlipressin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.