Question 7

Compare and contrast the pharmacology of noradrenaline and vasopressin

[Click here to toggle visibility of the answers]

College Answer

This was best answered using a table.

The main points expected for a pass were

  • Both are naturally occurring substances
  • Direct acting via receptors
  • Mechanisms by which both increase mean arterial pressure
  •  Metabolism
  • Uses in Intensive Care, septic shock, vasodilatory shock and diabetes insipidus.  
  • Side effects related to intense vasoconstriction and for vasopressin possible coronary ischaemia and sodium and water retention