Nocdurna (Desmopressin)

Indications

Nocdurna is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient desmopressin (as desmopressin acetate). It belongs to a class of drugs known as antidiuretics (also known as vasopressin analogs). It is a synthetic version of vasopressin, a naturally occurring hormone that regulates urine production, and is used to treat nocturia in adults.

Nocturia is a condition characterized by waking up at least two times during the night to urinate. Nocdurna works by reducing the amount of urine produced by the kidneys, thus reducing the frequency of urination during the night.

Uses and Dosage

Nocdurna comes in an orally disintegrating tablet form to be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times a day. To take the medication, remove the tablet from the packaging with dry hands and place it under the tongue. Leave the tablet under your tongue until it dissolves, without chewing or swallowing the tablet whole.

The dosage and frequency of Nocdurna may vary based on the patient's medical condition and response to treatment.

• For the treatment of diabetes insipidus, the medication is usually taken by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times a day.
• For the treatment of nighttime urination, the medication is usually taken by mouth once a day at bedtime. Patients should limit their fluid intake, especially 1 hour before taking the medication until 8 hours after the dose.
• For the treatment of bedwetting, the medication is usually taken once a day, 1 hour before bedtime. In children, fluid intake should be limited after dinner, especially 1 hour before bedtime until the next morning, or at least 8 hours after the dose. If the child wakes up during the night, the amount of fluid they drink should be limited.

Limit fluid intake while taking Nocdurna, and patients should consult their doctor for specific details. It should be taken regularly at the same time(s) each day to get the most benefit from it. Patients should not take more Nocdurna or take it more often than prescribed by their doctor. If patients find that they are drinking more fluids than directed, they should tell their doctor right away.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Nocdurna (Desmopressin):

• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue
• Flushing
• Headache
• Mild stomach pain
• Nausea
• Stomach upset

Serious Side Effects of Nocdurna (Desmopressin):

• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
• Hallucinations
• Headache
• Hives
• Lightheadedness
• Loss of coordination
• Muscle cramps
• Restlessness
• Seizure
• Severe weakness
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Swelling
• Unsteadiness
• Vomiting
• Weak or shallow breathing
• Weight gain

Form and Strength

Nocdurna (Desmopressin) is available in the following forms and strength:

Nocdurna: Orally Disintegrating Tablet

• 25 mcg
• 50 mcg

Caution

Some possible cautions about Nocdurna (Desmopressin) include the following:

• Use Nocdurna with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
• Nocdurna may interact with other medications, including diuretics and drugs that increase blood pressure. Inform a healthcare provider of all medications and supplements being taken before starting Nocdurna.
• Nocdurna is generally intended for short-term use, up to three months. Long-term use may increase the risk of developing low sodium levels in the blood, also known as hyponatremia.
• Nocdurna may cause some common side effects such as headache, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, nasal congestion, and high blood pressure.
• Desmopressin should be used with caution in patients with low blood volume, cardiovascular disease, or kidney disorders.
• Desmopressin should be used with caution in elderly patients, as they may be more susceptible to developing hyponatremia.
• Patients who experience symptoms of water intoxication, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, or confusion, should stop taking desmopressin and seek medical attention immediately.
• Desmopressin should not be used by patients with a history of hyponatremia or who are taking medications that also increase the risk of hyponatremia.
• Desmopressin should be used with caution in patients with cystic fibrosis or who are taking medications that increase the risk of developing low sodium levels in the blood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can Nocdurna be used long-term?

Nocdurna is generally intended for short-term use, up to three months. Long-term use may increase the risk of developing low sodium levels in the blood, also known as hyponatremia.

How quickly does Nocdurna work?

Nocdurna begins to work within one hour of taking the sublingual tablet, and its effects last for up to eight hours.

Can Nocdurna be taken with other medications?

Nocdurna may interact with other medications, including diuretics and drugs that increase blood pressure. Inform a healthcare provider of all medications and supplements being taken before starting Nocdurna.

Can Nocdurna be used by children?

Nocdurna is not recommended for use in children.

Resources

• https://www.drugs.com/dosage/nocdurna.html
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-176833/nocdurna-women-sublingual/details
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-nocdurna
• https://ferringusa.com/?press=nocdurna-desmopressin-acetate-now-approved-by-u-s-fda-as-first-sublingual-tablet-to-treat-nocturia-due-to-nocturnal-polyuria
• https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Nocdurna.aspx
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/022517s000lbl.pdf
• https://www.nocdurna.com/