Cirrhosis: Vasoconstrictor Medicines for Variceal Bleeding

Overview

Vasoconstrictor medicines are used to treat sudden (acute) bleeding from enlarged veins (varices). They make small blood vessels constrict, which reduces blood flow to veins that carry blood to the liver (portal veins).

These medicines also may be used along with endoscopic treatment.

What are the side effects?

Side effects of vasoconstrictor medicines may include irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), headache, or dizziness. Other side effects from long-term use of these medicines may include diarrhea, too much sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia), and the formation of gallstones.