Exogenous Vasopressin-Induced Hyponatremia in Patients With Vasodilatory Shock: Two Case Reports and Literature Review

We present 2 patients who developed hyponatremia within hours of initiation of vasopressin infusion. Extensive diuresis followed its discontinuation with subsequent normalization of serum sodium. One of the patients required the use of hypertonic saline for more rapid normalization of serum sodium due to concerns for potential seizure activity. A review of the literature relevant to the incidence of vasopressin-induced hyponatremia is provided as well as discussion on additional factors relevant to septic shock that should be considered when determining the relative risk of hyponatremia in patients receiving vasopressin.

Source: Journal of Intensive Care Medicine - June 4, 2015 Category: Intensive Care Authors: Salazar, M., Hu, B. B., Vazquez, J., Wintz, R. L., Varon, J. Tags: Analytic Reviews Source Type: research