Selepressin
Selepressin is a selective vasopressin V1a receptor agonist investigated as a vasopressor in septic shock. It is not interchangeable with vasopressin.
At a glance
- Evidence stage
- Early human
- Regulatory status
- Investigational critical-care compound; the SEPSIS-ACT phase 2b/3 trial stopped for futility and did not demonstrate its primary clinical benefit.
- Research context
- Selepressin is a selective vasopressin V1a receptor agonist investigated as a vasopressor in septic shock. It is not interchangeable with vasopressin.
What this is
- Selepressin is a selective vasopressin V1a receptor agonist investigated as a vasopressor in septic shock. It is not interchangeable with vasopressin.
What this isn't
- A recommendation to use, prepare, combine, or administer a product
- Evidence that a related molecule or a differently formulated product has the same effects
Key terms
Selepressin is a selective vasopressin V1a receptor agonist investigated as a vasopressor in septic shock. It is not interchangeable with vasopressin.
V1a receptor stimulation constricts blood vessels and was intended to counter severe infection-related vasodilation, with possible effects on vascular leakage. Selectivity supplied a rationale for testing a different profile from other vasopressors. The SEPSIS-ACT protocol and registry concern patients already requiring norepinephrine in intensive care, not a wellness or routine blood-pressure intervention.
Evidence limits
How to read the evidence
The adaptive trial design and early stopping limit what can be concluded about other possible strategies, but they do not make this a positive study. The central result is failure to improve the predefined endpoint. Claims about reduced fluid leakage or a more selective receptor profile should remain mechanistic hypotheses rather than substitutes for a demonstrated survival or recovery benefit.
Sources appraised 2026-10-28. Educational information; not medical advice. Study findings apply to the populations, preparations and outcomes described.
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