Indications
DDAVP (active ingredient: desmopressin) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Diabetes Insipidus: DDAVP is used for the treatment of central diabetes insipidus, a condition characterized by excessive thirst and urination due to a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
- Nocturnal Enuresis: It is also indicated for the management of primary nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children aged 6 years and older and in adults who have not responded to other measures.
- Hemophilia A and von Willebrand Disease: DDAVP is used to prevent or control bleeding episodes in patients with mild hemophilia A or mild to moderate von Willebrand disease (Type 1), a bleeding disorder.
DDAVP belongs to a class of drugs known as vasopressin analogues, which work by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys and reducing urine production, thereby decreasing thirst and the frequency of urination.
Uses and Dosage
DDAVP (desmopressin) comes in tablet form and is taken orally with a glass of water. The directions on the prescription label should be followed closely, and the medicine should be taken at regular intervals and not more often than directed. Taking the medicine more frequently than prescribed can lead to serious side effects.
The dosage for desmopressin will depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Taking more desmopressin than prescribed or taking it more often than prescribed can lead to serious side effects, so it is important to follow your doctor's instructions closely.
Patients should begin taking desmopressin at a dose of 0.05 mg (1/2 of the 0.1 mg tablet) two times a day, and the dose should be adjusted individually to achieve their optimal therapeutic dose. The optimal dosage range is 0.1 mg to 0.8 mg daily, divided into two or three doses depending on the patient's need for antidiuresis. The total daily dosage can be increased or decreased in the range of 0.1 mg to 1.2 mg, divided into two or three separate doses as needed.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Desmopressin:
- Diarrhea
- Facial flushing
- Headache
- Nausea
- Stomach upset or abdominal pain
Serious Side Effects of Desmopressin:
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of consciousness
- Mental or mood changes
- Muscle spasm
- Persistent vomiting
- Seizures
- Severe drowsiness
- Severe headache
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Sudden weight gain
Form and Strength
DDAVP (Desmopressin) is available in the following forms and strength:
DDAVP: Tablet
- 0.1 mg
- 0.2 mg
Desmopressin: Tablet
- 0.1 mg
- 0.2 mg
Caution
- Desmopressin may contain inactive ingredients which may cause allergic reactions or other issues. To learn more, discuss this with your pharmacist.
- If you become dehydrated, your doctor will address that issue first before beginning treatment with desmopressin. Dehydration can interfere with the effectiveness of desmopressin; ensure you are properly hydrated before taking this medication.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers must only take Desmopressin (DDAVP) if it is clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor, as it is still unknown if it could cause harm to unborn babies and breastfed infants. Women should also avoid taking any other medications that may interfere with how Desmopressin works, such as aspirin and other antiplatelet agents, heparin, or any other drugs that affect hemostasis.
- Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart problems conditions that may increase your risk of fluid/mineral imbalance, a strong urge to drink more water than usual, hyponatremia (low level of sodium in the blood) or bleeding/clotting issues.
- Limit alcohol consumption when taking desmopressin, as it can interfere with how the medication works. Consuming alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of the medication, so it is best to avoid consuming alcohol while taking desmopressin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the contraindication of desmopressin?
Hyponatremia is an absolute contraindication to the administration of desmopressin, except for symptomatic hyponatremia warranting aggressive management with the potential for osmotic demyelinating syndrome. Desmopressin acts primarily in the nephron; this drug is contraindicated in patients with renal impairment.
How is desmopressin taken?
Desmopressin is available in tablets, nasal sprays, and injection form. The dosage and method of administration will depend on the condition being treated.
How should desmopressin be stored?
Desmopressin should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light and heat.
How much does oral DDAVP cost?
You can see the price of this medication at the top of this page.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12145/ddavp-oral/details
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19345-desmopressin-tablets
- https://www.rxlist.com/ddavp-drug.htm#description
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6373982/
- https://reference.medscape.com/drug/ddavp-stimate-noctiva-desmopressin-342819
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