Desmopressin is a synthetic, man-made version of a naturally-occurring hormone in the human pituitary gland. This hormone affects blood pressure, kidney function, and how the body uses water. It treats central cranial diabetes insipidus, as well as the heightened thirst and urination that results from head surgery or head trauma.

Carefully follow your doctor’s directions and read any attached information with the drug. Dosage may be adjusted occasionally. Regular medical testing may be necessary. If you use this drug to control bleeding, get medical attention if desmopressin does not control bleeding.

When you first start the medicine, prime the spray by testing four to five sprays. Prime again if the spray hasn’t been used in three days or longer. Keep track of how many times you spray, as each bottle contains a specific number of sprays. The medicine should be thrown away after this number is reached, even if there appears to be some left over.

Limit how much fluid you consume. Overconsumption of water can cause sodium loss as well as life-threatening electrolyte imbalance. This is especially important in older patients and children.

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, but skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next one.

Desmopressin should be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture in an upright position. Unopened Noctiva should be stored in the fridge, but after opening it, store it at room temperature to be used within 60 days. DDAVP Rhinal Tube should also be stored in the fridge, but not frozen, although closed bottles can be kept at room temperature for up to three weeks.

Do not use desmopressin past the expiration date.

Don’t take DDAVP if you are allergic to desmopressin. DDAVP may not work as well if you have swelling or scarring inside your nose or if you have nasal or sinus problems.

If you have any of the following conditions, you may not be able to use desmopressin nasal: the history of low sodium levels, uncontrolled hypertension, congestive heart failure, kidney disease, SIADH, fever, infection, vomiting, diarrhea, or a condition that causes excessive thirst, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance.

Let your doctor know if you’ve experienced: nasal problems like congestion; a psychologic disorder that causes extreme or unusual thirst; an infection with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea; inability to urinate or kidney disease; head trauma or brain tumor; diabetes; or cystic fibrosis.

Desmopressin’s effect on pregnancy is unknown. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant or plan to and if you breast-feed. This medicine is not meant to treat excessive urination during pregnancy.

Call your doctor if you experience: vomiting or diarrhea, fever, or unusually excessive sweating. You are at higher risk of dehydration, which may lead to, severe low blood pressure or severe electrolyte imbalance.

Get emergency attention if you suspect an allergic reaction, and if you experience signs of low sodium, rapid weight gain, swelling in ankles and feet, convulsions, or nasal problems. Low sodium may appear as headaches, drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, restlessness, weakness, muscle pain, and loss of appetite.

Other common side effects include: nasal discomfort, sore throat, cough, dizziness, increased blood pressure, back pain, headaches, flushing, insomnia, itchy eyes, and light sensitivity.

Not all possible side effects and drug interactions are provided here.

Can desmopressin interact harmfully with other things?

Yes. Inform your doctor of other drugs you take, especially if you take diuretics, steroid medications, other nasal medications, antidepressants, bladder or urinary drugs, cold or allergy drugs, heart or blood pressure medicine, psychiatric medications, seizure medicine, and NSAIDs. Also tell your doctor if you use OTC drugs, herbs, supplements, and vitamins.