Vasopressin

Dilution guide

Indication

Adjunct to noradrenaline in septic / vasoplegic shock.

Preparation

20 U in 100 mL D5W or NS (0.2 U/mL) via central line.

Dilution

20 U / 100 mL → 0.2 U/mL

Rate

Fixed 0.03 U/min (range 0.01–0.04). Do NOT titrate above 0.04 U/min.

Monitoring

  • Continuous BP, MAP
  • Na⁺
  • Digital, mesenteric, coronary perfusion
  • Lactate

Common errors

  • Bolus dosing → cardiac arrest
  • Titrating above 0.04 U/min
  • Peripheral infusion

Pearls

  • Catecholamine-sparing — reduces noradrenaline requirement
  • Risk of ischaemic complications increases above 0.04 U/min
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WardRound

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