Samsca – the first and only oral vasopressin antagonist
Samsca (tolvaptan) is a original drug from Otsuka and is a selective vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist which is part of the medication class known as vasopressin antagonists (vaptans).
Samsca has been approved for use by EMEA (European Medicines Agency) and is thereby the first and only oral vasopressin antagonist available in the Nordic countries.
Indications for prescription of Samsca
Samsca is intended for the treatment of adult patients with hyponatraemia secondary to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone* secretion (SIADH)
* Anti-diuretic hormone = Vasopressin
Hyponatremia – common electrolyte disturbance
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disturbance in hospital patients and involves an abnormally low concentration of sodium in the bloodstream (<135 mmol/l). Sodium is important for the regulation of blood pressure. A disturbance in the sodium balance such as hyponatremia can lead to other serious conditions.
Vasopressin and SIADH – one cause of hyponatremia
Vasopressin or anti-diuretic hormone, plays a central role in regulation of the kidneys’ excretion of fluid, which contributes to maintaining the body’s sodium-water balance.
SIADH, syndrome of inappropriate vasopressin secretion, is due to or increased sensitivity for, vasopressin, which leads in increased re-absorption of water through the kidneys, with resulting hyponatremia. SIADH can occur as a result of such diseases as cancer, infections and head injuries, as well as a side-effect of certain medication.