Comparison
Terlipressin vs. Vasopressin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
14636-12-5
no data
Molecular weight
1227.37 g/mol
1084.23 g/mol
Half-life
no data
no data
Sequence
no data
no data
Mechanism of action
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.
Vasopressin
Vasopressin binds V1 receptors (vasoconstriction, raising vascular resistance) and V2 receptors (renal water reabsorption via aquaporin channels). This raises blood pressure and acts antidiuretically. Desmopressin is the V2-selective synthetic analog.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
1
0
of which in humans
1
0
Effects recorded
2
2
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Terlipressin and Vasopressin?
- Terlipressin is classified as "Research other", while Vasopressin is classified as "Research other". 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). Vasopressin: Vasopressin (arginine vasopressin, antidiuretic hormone/ADH) is a cyclic nonapeptide hormone that regulates water balance and vascular tone. As Vasostrict it is approved to raise blood pressure in vasodilatory shock. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Terlipressin or Vasopressin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Terlipressin and "Human RCT" for Vasopressin. 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 Terlipressin and Vasopressin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Terlipressin — Prescription, Vasopressin — Prescription. United States: Terlipressin — Prescription, Vasopressin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.