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Vasopressin

Prescription
Antidiuretic Hormone / Vasopressor
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Endogenous peptide hormone acting on V1 receptors (causing vasoconstriction) and V2 receptors (promoting renal water reabsorption). Used as a vasopressor in refractory shock and for CDI testing.

At a glance

Class
Antidiuretic Hormone / Vasopressor
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at 2–8°C; stable at room temperature for limited periods per manufacturer

Dosing

🐕

Dog

In CPR, vasopressin is given as alternative to or in combination with epinephrin
Dose
0.4–0.8 U/kg
Route
IV, IM
Frequency
CPR (once/q3-5 min); CRI (continuous); IM once for diagnostic use
🐈

Cat

Use for refractory vasodilatory shock or CDI evaluation
Dose
0.01–0.04 U/kg
Route
IV, IM
Frequency
Continuous (vasopressor); once (diagnostic)
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at 2–8°C; stable at room temperature for limited periods per manufacturer

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Blood pressure (continuous monitoring in CRI)Urine outputSerum electrolytesPeripheral perfusion
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

Major — 1

Desmopressin
major
Both act on V2 receptors (antidiuretic effect). Combined: severe water retention and potentially fatal hyponatremia.
Management: Do not combine. Use one or the other based on clinical indication.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Brands

Other markets

Pitressin
ADH

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Vasopressin?
Vasopressin is a antidiuretic hormone / vasopressor used in pets. Endogenous peptide hormone acting on V1 receptors (causing vasoconstriction) and V2 receptors (promoting renal water reabsorption). Used as a vasopressor in refractory shock and for CDI testing.
What is Vasopressin used for in pets?
Vasopressin is used in veterinary medicine for: In CPR, vasopressin is given as alternative to or in combination with epinephrin; Use for refractory vasodilatory shock or CDI evaluation.
What is the Vasopressin dose for dogs?
For dogs, Vasopressin is typically dosed as follows — In CPR, vasopressin is given as alternative to or in combination with epinephrin: 0.4–0.8 U/kg IV/IM CPR (once/q3-5 min); CRI (continuous); IM once for diagnostic use. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Vasopressin dose for cats?
For cats, Vasopressin is typically dosed as follows — Use for refractory vasodilatory shock or CDI evaluation: 0.01–0.04 U/kg IV/IM Continuous (vasopressor); once (diagnostic). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Vasopressin need a prescription?
Yes. Vasopressin is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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