vasopressin

[ vas-oh-pres-in ]
/ ˌvæs oʊˈprɛs ɪn /

noun

Biochemistry. a peptide hormone, synthesized in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland, that stimulates capillary muscles and reduces the flow of urine and increases its concentration.
Pharmacology. a synthetic preparation of this hormone, used as an antidiuretic in the treatment of diabetes insipidus.
Also called antidiuretic hormone, ADH.

Origin of vasopressin

First recorded in 1928; orig. trademark

British Dictionary definitions for vasopressin

vasopressin
/ (ˌveɪzəʊˈprɛsɪn) /

noun

a polypeptide hormone secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It increases the reabsorption of water by the kidney tubules and increases blood pressure by constricting the arteries Also called: antidiuretic hormone Chemical name: beta-hypophamine Compare oxytocin

Word Origin for vasopressin

from Vasopressin, a trademark

Medical definitions for vasopressin

vasopressin
[ vā′zō-prĕsĭn ]

n.

A hormone, related to oxytocin, that is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, constricts blood vessels, raises blood pressure, stimulates intestinal motility, and reduces the excretion of urine. antidiuretic hormone

Scientific definitions for vasopressin

vasopressin
[ vā′zō-prĕsĭn ]

See antidiuretic hormone.