Desmopressin
What is Desmopressin?
Desmopressin is a medicine that helps the body control the amount of urine (pee) it makes.
In pediatric endocrinology, desmopressin is often used to treat:
- Diabetes insipidus (DI) — a condition where the body makes too much urine and causes extreme thirst
- Bedwetting in some children
Desmopressin helps the body hold onto water so your child urinates less often.
Common Brand Names
Common brand names include:
- DDAVP
- Nocdurna
How Is Desmopressin Taken?
Desmopressin may come as:
- A tablet
- A dissolving tablet
- A nasal spray
Give the medicine exactly as prescribed by your child’s healthcare provider.
Important: Fluid (Drink) Safety
Desmopressin helps the body keep water. Drinking too much fluid while taking this medicine can be dangerous.
Your provider may ask your child to:
- Limit fluids for a certain amount of time
- Avoid drinking large amounts of water
- Follow a special drinking plan
Follow these instructions carefully.
What If I Miss a Dose?
- Give the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose.
- Do not give two doses at the same time unless your provider tells you to.
Common Side Effects
Many children do well with desmopressin.
Possible side effects include:
- Headache
- Mild stomach pain
- Nausea
- Runny or stuffy nose (with nasal spray)
Serious Side Effects — Call Your Provider Right Away
Too much water in the body can lower sodium levels in the blood. This can become serious.
Call your provider immediately if your child has:
- Severe headache
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Extreme sleepiness
- Muscle cramps
- Seizures
These may be signs of low sodium levels.
Important Tips
- Keep all follow-up appointments.
- Your child may need blood tests to check sodium levels.
- Tell your healthcare provider if your child is vomiting, has diarrhea, or is drinking much more than usual.
- Do not change the dose without talking to your provider.
When to Call the Healthcare Provider
Call your provider if:
- Your child has worsening thirst or urination
- Your child develops side effects
- Your child is sick and cannot drink normally
- You have questions about fluid limits or dosing
Seek emergency care for:
- Seizures
- Trouble waking up
- Severe confusion
- Trouble breathing
Storage
- Store at room temperature unless your pharmacy tells you otherwise.
- Keep away from heat and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Questions?
If you have questions about desmopressin or your child’s treatment plan, contact the team at Endo For Kids
