Cirrhosis: Vasoconstrictor Medicines for Variceal Bleeding
Vasoconstrictor medicines are used to treat sudden (acute) bleeding from enlarged veins (varices). They make blood vessels constrict, which reduces blood flow to help stop bleeding and help prevent recurrent bleeding. These medicines also may be used along with endoscopic treatment of variceal banding or sclerotherapy to stop bleeding from the varices.
What are the side effects?
Side effects of vasoconstrictor medicines may include irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), headaches, and dizziness. Long-term use of these medicines may cause diarrhea or too much sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia).
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Current as of: February 27, 2026
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WebMD Ignite Staff
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Current as of: February 27, 2026
Author:
WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.