Terlipressin for the treatment of acute variceal bleeding: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aim

Acute variceal bleeding (AVB) is life-threatening. We aimed to systematically review the current evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of terlipressin for AVB in liver cirrhosis.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. The reference list was also hand-searched. Using a random-effect model, we combined the data obtained according to the different time points when the events developed. Odds ratio (OR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) were calculated. Quality of evidence was evaluated by the GRADE methodology.

Results

Thirty randomized controlled trials with 3344 patients were included. Compared with no vasoactive drug, terlipressin significantly improved the control of bleeding within 48 hours (OR = 2.94, P = .00

SUBMITTER: Zhou X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6283114 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature