Role of terlipressin in the treatment of infants and neonates with catecholamine-resistant septic shock

The present paper is aimed at reviewing new findings on the use of terlipressin in children with septic shock. The level of evidence based on the data available in the literature is very low. Three series of cases and four isolated cases report on the use of terlipressin in children with catecholamine-refractory septic shock. The aggregated population represents 39 children. The dosages of boli vary from 7μg/kg twice a day to 2μg/kg every 4 hours. Low-dose continuous infusion has also been described. Terlipressin injection is associated with an approximately 30% increase in blood pressure. Mortality of these children with catecholamine refractory septic shock is 54%. The paucity of most reports does not make it possible to conclude on the global and microcirculatory effects of this treatment. Future studies are required before any recommendations on the use of terlipressin in children with septic shock can be made.

Key words: septic shock, paediatrics, terlipressin