Desmopressin Side Effects, Uses, Mechanism Of Action & Dosage
Desmopressin is a prescription medication used to treat and contriol insipidus and bedwetting. It can be taken as an oral tablet that should be taken by mouth. In the following article, we discuss the uses, dosage, side effects and interactions of desmopressin. Read on to learn more about this medication that can be useful in preventing bedwetting.
What Is Desmopressin?
Desmopressin is a prescription medication used to treat and control symptoms of insipidus, a condition in which the body produces an abnormally large amount of urine. In some cases, desmopressin may also be used to treat excessive thirst, as well as control the passage of urine after a serious head injury.
Desmopressin Side Effects
Although desmopressin is generally very safe, it does come with some associated side effects. Some of these side effects are more serious and less common than others.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of desmopressin include the following:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Diahrrea
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
Serious Side Effects
Some side effects of desmopressin are more serious and may require medical attention. Talk to your doctor immediately if you begin experiencing any of the following side effects of desmopressin.
- Confusion
- Muscle cramps
- Severe weakness
- Loss of muscle control
- Vomiting
- Swelling
- Seizure
- Rapid weight gain
- Light headed feeling
Disclaimer: Here at Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.
How Does Desmopressin Work?
Desmopressin works on the kidneys to decrease the amount of urine created. Desmopressin is a synthetic form of vasopressin hormone, a chemical made by the pituitary gland. This hormone helps signal the brain to stop the urge to urinate and produce urine.
Desmorpessin can help decrease bedwetting in children; it may be used alone or with other methods to prevent bedwetting.
Desmopressin Dosage
The dosing of desmopressin may vary depending on the patient, their condition, their age and weight. Be sure to follow your doctor's directions and the orders on the label when you are taking desmopressin.The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different from the following recommendations, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
Desmopressin Dosage For Bedwetting
Adults: At first, 0.2 milligram (mg) as a single dose at bedtime. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 0.6 mg per day.
Children 6+: At first, 0.2 milligram (mg) as a single dose at bedtime. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 0.6 mg per day.
Desmopressin Dosage For Diabetes Insipidus
Adults: At first, 0.05 milligram (mg) 2 times a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
Children 6+: At first, 0.05 milligram (mg) 2 times a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
Vasopressin vs Desmopressin
Desmopressin is a synthetic analogue version of vasopressin. It is much more powerful and has 10 times the diuretic action of vasopressin.
What Is Desmopressin Used For?
Desmopressin can be used to prevent bedwetting in children, as well as decrease the amount of urine produced by adults. The other uses of desmopressin include von Willebrand's disease and hemophillia A. It does so by causing the release of von Willebrand's antigen from the platelets and the cells that line the blood vessels in which it is stored.
Desmopressin For Bleeding
Desmopressin may be used to help stop bleeding in patients with von Willebrand's disease or mild hemophilia A. To treat these conditions, desmopressin causes the release of von Willebrand's antigen from the platelets and the cells that line the blood vessels.
Desmopressin Brand Name
Desmopressin is available as a generic drug and as a brand name drug under a variety of titles. The brand names of desmopressin include:
- DDAVP
- Stimate
- Minirin
- Noctiva
- Nocdurna
Can Desmopressin Cause Kidney Problems?
Elderly persons are more likely to experience kidney problems when taking desmopressin. If you experience kidney problems while taking desmopressin, with side effects including stomach pain and trouble urinating, please talk to a doctor immediately.
Desmopressin Side Effects, Uses, Mechanism Of Action & Dosage: Summary
Desmopressin is a prescription medication used to treat and control symptoms of insipidus, a condition in which the body produces an abnormally large amount of urine.
