Desmopressin
Uses of Desmopressin
Desmopressin is commonly used to treat type 1 Von Willebrand's disease, headache due to lumbar puncture and primary nocturnal enuresis.
How Desmopressin Works
Desmopressin is a vasopressin analogue. It exerts its action of renal tubular cells by increasing water permeability forming reduced urine volume and increased urine osmolality. It also aids in the formation of clot during an injury in Von Willebrand’s disease.
Side Effects of Desmopressin
Headache, Stomach pain, Nausea, Allergic skin reactions, Pain and swelling at the inj site.
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Desmopressin should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease as the efficacy may be reduced. Dose adjustment of Desmopressin may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Concurrent use of Desmopressin with alcohol will reduce its efficacy. Therefore, avoid taking alcohol while being put on Desmopressin.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Desmopressin should be used with caution during pregnancy. Either animal studies or human studies have failed to show adverse effects on the fetus but there is insufficient conclusive human studies or animal- reproduction studies. Please consult your doctor before using it.
Driving Generally Safe
Desmopressin has negligible effect on your ability to concentrate and drive. You are allowed to drive unless you feel unwell.
Liver Safe If Prescribed
Desmopressin should be used with caution in patients with liver disease, in case of Desmopressin- induced hyponatremia. Dose adjustment of Desmopressin may be needed Please consult your doctor before using it.
Lactation Safe If Prescribed
The excretion of Desmopressin in human breast milk is minimal. Limited human data suggests that Desmopressin does not represent a significant risk to the baby.