Desmopressin
Brand names: DDAVP® , DDAVP® Rhinal Tube , Minirin®, Stimate®
Chemical formula:
- Drug Forms:
- Desmopressin tablets (below)
- Desmopressin injection
- Desmopressin nose spray
- Desmopressin rhinal tube nose solution
- Español:
- Tabletas de desmopresina
- Inyección de desmopresina
- Aerosol nasal de desmopresina
- Solución de desmopresina para administración por sonda intranasal
Desmopressin tablets
What are desmopressin tablets?
DESMOPRESSIN (DDAVP®) is a man-made form of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, or ADH). In the body, vasopressin acts to balance the amount of salt and water in your body. Desmopressin helps to prevent or control frequent urination, excessive thirst, and dehydration associated with decreased levels of vasopressin. Such problems occur with diabetes insipidus or certain brain injuries. Desmopressin is also used to help stop frequent night-time urination or bedwetting. Generic desmopressin tablets are available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• blood clots
• cystic fibrosis
• heart disease, including history of a heart attack or heart failure
• high blood pressure
• low sodium levels in your blood
• kidney disease
• usually drink large amounts of water
• an unusual or allergic reaction to desmopressin, vasopressin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take desmopressin tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.What drug(s) may interact with desmopressin?
• alcohol
• carbamazepine
• chlorpromazine
• chlorpropamide
• cisplatin
• clofibrate
• cyclophosphamide
• demeclocycline
• fludrocortisone
• lamotrigine
• lithium
• narcotic medicines for pain
• NSAIDS, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
• oxybutynin
• vincristine
Tell your prescriber or health care professional: about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines; if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol; if you smoke; or if you use illegal drugs. These can affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking desmopressin?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.
Desmopressin can prevent the loss of water. Only drink enough fluid to satisfy your thirst. Too much water in the body can cause confusion, drowsiness, or lethargy, which may lead to seizures or coma. The risk of too much water in the body is greater in young children and the elderly. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice about your fluid intake.
What side effects might I notice from taking desmopressin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing
• confusion
• drowsiness
• nausea, persistent or severe
• rapid weight gain
• retaining water
• severe or continuing headaches
• seizures
• weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• flushing (reddening) of the skin
• headache
• nausea
• stomach pain or cramps
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature 20—25 degrees C (68—77 degrees F). Avoid exposure to excessive heat or light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
