Continuous Versus Bolus Infusion of Terlipressin for Portal Hypertension Related Bleeding in Liver Cirrhosis

Continuous Versus Bolus Infusion of Terlipressin for Portal Hypertension Related Bleeding in Liver Cirrhosis: A Prospective Non-randomized Controlled Trial

Terlipressin is the mainstay drug for the treatment of acute variceal bleeding in liver cirrhosis. According to the drug instructions, intravenous bolus infusion is the standard approach of terlipressin. It remains unclear about whether or not continuous infusion of terlipressin should be considered.

Although intravenous bolus infusion of terlipressin is the standard approach, continuous infusion of terlipressin is preferred in clinical practice. The present study is a pilot non-randomized controlled trial to explore the feasibility and safety of continuous infusion of terlipressin for the treatment of acute variceal bleeding in liver cirrhosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. A diagnosis of liver cirrhosis;
2. Child-Pugh B or C;
3. Acute gastroesophageal variceal bleeding;
4. Written informed consents. -

Exclusion Criteria:

1. No liver cirrhosis;
2. Child-Pugh class A;
3. Acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding unrelated to varices;
4. Use of somatostatin or octreotide. -