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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)

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

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.

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.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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 →