Drug
Desmopressin
Pronounced
"dess-mow-PRESS-in"
Uses
Desmopressin is used to control the amount of urine your kidneys make. Normally, the amount of urine you make is controlled by a certain substance in the body called vasopressin. In people who have "water diabetes" (diabetes insipidus), the body does not make enough vasopressin. Desmopressin is a man-made form of vasopressin and is used to replace a low level of vasopressin. This medication helps to control increased thirst and too much urination due to these conditions and helps prevent dehydration.
Warning
Desmopressin can rarely cause low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia), which can be serious or even fatal. Your risk may be higher if you drink too much fluid, take certain medications (such as "water pills"/diuretics including furosemide, corticosteroids such as prednisone), are 65 years or older, or have certain medical conditions. To monitor your risk, your doctor should check your sodium blood level before you start taking this medication and while you are taking it. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of low sodium in the blood, such as nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness/cramps, unusual tiredness, unusual drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, mental/mood changes including confusion/irritability.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including seizures or trouble breathing.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This medication may also be used to control nighttime bedwetting in children. It reduces how often your child urinates and decreases the number of bedwetting episodes.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking desmopressin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food), usually twice daily.
Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
Limit water and other fluids while using this medication, especially in children and older adults. Consult your doctor for more details. If you find that you are drinking more fluid than directed, tell your doctor right away. Your treatment will need to be adjusted.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.