Drug updated on 4/18/2024
| Dosage Form | Injection (intravenous; 0.85 mg/vial) |
| Drug Class | Vasopressin receptor agonists |
| Ongoing and Completed Studies | ClinicalTrials.gov |
Indication
- Indicated to improve kidney function in adults with hepatorenal syndrome with rapid reduction in kidney function.
Summary
- Terlipressin (Terlivaz) is indicated to improve kidney function in adults with hepatorenal syndrome, showing a promising profile in managing this condition and offering a competitive alternative to other vasoconstrictors like noradrenaline.
- Nine studies primarily focused on adult populations suffering from hepatorenal syndrome or related acute kidney injury within the cirrhosis spectrum.
- Comparative studies between terlipressin and noradrenaline showed minimal differences in effectiveness regarding hepatorenal syndrome reversal and mortality rates. However, adverse events varied: abdominal pain and diarrhea for terlipressin versus cardiovascular issues for noradrenaline.
- The combination of terlipressin and albumin has been advocated due to its effectiveness in reversing renal failure. In liver transplantation settings, it potentially reduces acute kidney injury incidence due to its hemodynamic benefits but the clinical relevance was questioned concerning post-transplant outcomes.
- Compared with placebo, terlipressin increases hepatorenal syndrome reversal rates, potentially reduces mortality but may increase the risk of serious adverse events, necessitating a cautious evaluation of the risk-benefit ratio.
- Research exploring uses beyond hepatorenal syndrome indicates potential benefits of using Terlivaz (terlipressin) in improving hemodynamics and renal function associated with conditions such as ascites or circulatory dysfunction post-paracentesis; however, subgroup considerations are generally lacking in detail, signifying an area requiring further research.
Product Monograph / Prescribing Information
| Document Title | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Terlivaz (terlipressin) prescribing information. | 2022 | Mallinckrodt Hospital Products Inc., Bedminster, NJ |