vasopressin

American  

[vas-oh-pres-in] / ˌvæs oʊˈprɛs ɪn /

noun

1. 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.

2. Pharmacology. a synthetic preparation of this hormone, used as an antidiuretic in the treatment of diabetes insipidus.

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vasopressin British  

/ ˌveɪzəʊˈprɛsɪn /

noun

1. Chemical name: beta-hypophamine. Also called: antidiuretic hormone. 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 Compare oxytocin

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vasopressin Scientific  

/ vā′zō-prĕs′ĭn /

1. See antidiuretic hormone

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Etymology

Origin of vasopressin

First recorded in 1928; originally trademark

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

vasopressin

The drug works by blocking vasopressin, which helps reduce cyst growth.

From Science Daily ● Jun. 17, 2026

Several hormones can spike in men when they become dads, including oxytocin, linked to better relationship quality; vasopressin, associated with emotional bonding; and prolactin, which promotes lactation in women and caregiving behavior in guys.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 10, 2026

In rare cases, however, it can be caused by vasopressin deficiency.

From Science Daily ● Nov. 16, 2023

Because oxytocin and vasopressin are present in many species but promote bonding only in some species, it seemed plausible that there might be species differences in the distribution of hormone receptors.

From Scientific American ● Feb. 13, 2023

Oxytocin and vasopressin control the third stage: attachment or long-term bonding.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon

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