HYdrocortisone and VAsopressin in Post-RESuscitation Syndrome

This French ICU study is testing whether a combination of arginine-vasopressin (AVP) and hydrocortisone — two hormones that can support blood pressure and organ function — works better than the current standard treatment (norepinephrine alone) in patients who survive a cardiac arrest but then develop dangerous low blood pressure. The study is comparing survival and brain recovery at 30 days between patients given the hormone combination versus a placebo added to standard care. Eligible adults (18+) must have had a cardiac arrest with sustained return of spontaneous circulation, developed shock within 24 hours requiring high-dose vasopressors, and be enrolled within 9 hours of starting those medications — people with known adrenal insufficiency, ongoing steroid use, or gastrointestinal bleeding are not eligible. Participation involves IV infusions of the study drugs or placebo in an ICU setting for up to 7 days, with close monitoring. This summary was prepared with AI assistance to help patients understand the study in plain language.