Vasopressin Research Dosage: Published Protocol Reference
Vasopressin dosage references vary by route and study context. The database lists Intravenous infusion: 0.01-0.04 units/min, Continuous (for vasodilatory shock), Intramuscular/Subcutaneous: 5-10 units, Every 4-6 hours as needed, and Intravenous bolus: 40 units, Single dose (in cardiac arrest). These are research-context references, not a universal protocol.
Direct Answer
Vasopressin (Vasostrict) is FDA-approved for vasodilatory shock (septic shock, post-cardiotomy vasodilatory shock) with Phase 3 evidence from the VASST trial showing non-inferiority to norepinephrine and steroid-sparing potential in septic shock. As an endogenous hormone with a distinct vasoconstrictive mechanism, it is a standard vasopressor in critical care medicine.
- Evidence grade
- Level A
- Research status
- FDA Approved
- Category
- Healing & Recovery
- Best for
- Vasodilatory shock, septic shock vasopressor therapy, V1a/V2 receptor pharmacology research
Research Dosage References
- <strong>Intravenous infusion</strong> - 0.01-0.04 units/min - Continuous (for vasodilatory shock) - Vasostrict. Do not exceed 0.07 units/min. Titrate to target MAP. Used as adjunct to catecholamine vasopressors.
- <strong>Intramuscular/Subcutaneous</strong> - 5-10 units - Every 4-6 hours as needed - For diabetes insipidus. Titrate based on urine output and serum sodium. Desmopressin generally preferred for chronic management.
- <strong>Intravenous bolus</strong> - 40 units - Single dose (in cardiac arrest) - ACLS protocol. May replace first or second dose of epinephrine in cardiac arrest. Single dose only.
Half-Life
~10-35 minutes.
Evidence Limits
Dosage entries are compiled from labels, published studies, and research-context references where available. For Vasopressin, the evidence grade is Level A, and the current research status is FDA Approved.
Safety Signals
- Water intoxication/hyponatremia risk with excessive doses
- Digital and mesenteric ischemia - monitor extremities
- Cardiac ischemia risk - use with caution in coronary artery disease
- Extravasation can cause tissue necrosis
- Can cause uterine contractions - use caution in pregnancy
Evidence Snapshot
| Evidence grade | Level A |
|---|---|
| Research status | FDA Approved |
| Best supported outcomes | Vasodilatory Shock Treatment (Level A), Diabetes Insipidus Management (Level A), and Cardiac Arrest Adjunct (Level B) |
| Primary citation count | 3 |
| Last reviewed | 2026-04-04 |
Related Guides
How to Cite This Page
ExaminePeptides. "Vasopressin Research Dosage: Published Protocol Reference." Last reviewed 2026-04-04. https://examinepeptides.com/answers/vasopressin-research-dosage/
This static answer page is built for fast indexing and direct citation. It summarizes the matching full evidence review and links back to primary sources where the source database includes them.