Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Desmopressin is a medication utilized to regulate the volume of urine produced by the kidneys. The secretion of urine is under the control of vasopressin, a specific substance present in the body. In individuals suffering from conditions such as diabetes insipidus, head injuries or brain surgery, vasopressin levels are deficient. In such cases, desmopressin, an artificial analog of vasopressin, is administered to compensate for the depleted levels.
This medication aids in managing excessive thirst and urination caused by these conditions, as well as preventing dehydration. Desmopressin is employed to regulate nocturnal enuresis in children by reducing urine frequency and minimizing bedwetting incidents.
Uses and Dosage
Follow the provided instructions on priming the bottle if you are using it for the first time or after a lapse of a week or more. Administer this medication into the nose, typically 1 to 3 times per day, as directed by your doctor. In cases where the dosage exceeds 1 spray, distribute half the dose into each nostril. For instance, if the prescribed dose is 2 sprays, administer 1 spray in each nostril.
Keep a record of the number of sprays used from each container and dispose of the container once the specified number of sprays, as indicated on the package, has been reached.
When a child is using this medication, a parent or another responsible adult should supervise and assist the child in proper administration.
While using this medication, especially in children and older adults, limit the intake of water and other fluids. Consult your doctor for specific details. If you observe that you are consuming more fluids than instructed, promptly inform your doctor, as adjustments to your treatment may be necessary.
Dosage is determined based on your medical condition and your response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed amount of desmopressin, and adhere to the recommended frequency.
Consistently use this medication to maximize its benefits. Establish a routine by administering it at the same time(s) each day to aid in remembering.
Notify your doctor if your condition does not show improvement or if the medication ceases to be effective.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- heartburn
- weakness
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- warm feeling
- nosebleed
- nostril pain, discomfort, or congestion
- itchy or light-sensitive eyes
- back pain
- sore throat, cough, chills, or other signs of infection
- flushing
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- vomiting
- chest pain
- fast or pounding heartbeat
- rash
- hives
- itching
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Caution
- Prior to taking desmopressin, inform your pharmacist or doctor if you have any allergies to it or other substances. This medication may contain inactive components that can trigger an allergic reaction or other adverse effects.
- Before administering this medication, notify your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, primarily if you have kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart issues, medical conditions that increase the risk of fluid or mineral imbalance (such as cystic fibrosis), an urge to drink excessive water without being thirsty, low levels of sodium in the blood (hyponatremia), or bleeding or clotting disorders.
- Restrict alcohol intake since it may interfere with the effectiveness of desmopressin.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you encounter any health conditions that may cause fluid or mineral imbalances (including fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or infections such as the flu), or if you experience circumstances that require higher fluid intake (such as exposure to extremely hot weather, intense exercise, or heavy sweating). The physician may need to alter or discontinue desmopressin therapy, primarily in children and older adults.
- Children may be more vulnerable to the side effects of this medication, particularly water or mineral imbalances and low sodium levels in the blood.
- Older adults may face a higher risk of experiencing water or mineral imbalances and low sodium levels in the blood when using this medication.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when required. Consult your doctor to assess the potential risks and advantages.
Form and Strength
DDAVP Nasal Spray is available in the following forms and strengths:
- DDAVP Nasal Spray nasal spray:
- 0.01 %
- desmopressin nasal spray:
- 0.01 %
FAQ
What does DDAVP do to urine?
It works on the kidneys to decrease the amount of urine made.
What happens if you drink water after taking DDAVP?
Drinking too much water may lead to a serious, life-threatening electrolyte imbalance. Fluid restriction is especially important in children and older adults using desmopressin.
Resources
- https://www.childrensmn.org/educationmaterials/childrensmn/article/15667/desmopressin-ddavp-for-bedwetting/#:~:text=Desmopressin%20(DDAVP)%20is%20a%20synthetic,other%20methods%20to%20prevent%20bedwetting
- https://chicagocolorectal.com/patient-education/healthwise/?DOCHWID=d00583a1#:~:text=exactly%20as%20directed.-,Limit%20your%20intake%20of%20water%20and%20other%20fluids%20while%20you,and%20older%20adults%20using%20desmopressin
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16777-4112/ddavp-nasal/desmopressin-0-1-mg-ml-spray-nasal/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/desmopressin-nasal-route/description/drg-20066827
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/desmopressin-01-mgml-spray-nasal
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/ddavp-nasal-spray.html
