Terlipressin

Variceal bleed: 2 mg IV, then 1–2 mg every 4–6 hours. Also for hepatorenal syndrome with albumin.

Vasopressin analogueReviewed October 2026
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Dose

IndicationDose
Variceal bleeding2 mg IV, then 1–2 mg every 4–6 hours for up to 2–5 days
Hepatorenal syndrome0.5–1 mg IV every 4–6 hours (or infusion), with albumin (specialist)

Cautions

  • Ischaemia: chest pain, abdominal pain, cold or mottled limbs; avoid in ischaemic heart disease and peripheral vascular disease.
  • Low sodium, breathing problems (fluid overload).

Frequently asked questions

Should terlipressin be given before endoscopy?

Yes, in suspected variceal bleeding, along with antibiotics.

Used in these guides

Sources

  1. Drugs.com: Terlipressin dosage

Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.