DDAVP Nasal Spray (Desmopressin)

Do’s

• Prime the pump (first use or after a week). Follow instructions for priming the pump if it's your first time using it or if it hasn't been used in over a week.
• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions. Use DDAVP nasal spray as directed by your healthcare provider, typically 1-3 times daily.
• Spray in each nostril (if multiple sprays). If your dose requires more than one spray, split the dose and spray half in each nostril. (Example: 2-spray dose = 1 spray per nostril)
• Keep count of the number of sprays used from each container.
• Dispose of the container after using the prescribed number of sprays.
• If a child is using DDAVP, ensure an adult supervises and assists with proper administration.

Don'ts

• Don't drink excessive fluids. Limit your fluid intake, especially for children and older adults, while using DDAVP. Consult your healthcare provider for specific recommendations. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience increased thirst and feel the need to drink more than instructed. They might need to adjust your treatment.
• Don't use more DDAVP or use it more often than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't use it inconsistently. Use DDAVP nasal spray regularly at the same time(s) each day for optimal benefit.
• Don't discontinue without consulting a healthcare provider. Tell your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or if the medication seems to lose effectiveness.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Mild stomach pain

Serious Side Effects:

• Low levels of sodium in the body: headache, confusion, hallucinations, muscle cramps, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, feeling restless or unsteady
• Flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
• Swelling, weight gain
• Seizure
• Weak or shallow breathing
• Light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
• Serious allergic reactions: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking DDAVP nasal spray,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies you have, including allergies to desmopressin or any of the medication's ingredients.

Tell your healthcare provider about any pre-existing health problems, especially:

• Kidney disease
• Heart problems (blocked arteries, heart failure)
• High blood pressure
• Conditions that can cause fluid/mineral imbalance (cystic fibrosis)
• Uncontrollable thirst (not due to dehydration)
• Low sodium in the blood (hyponatremia)
• Bleeding/clotting problems

Address dehydration before starting DDAVP Nasal Spray treatment.

Limit alcohol consumption as it can affect the effectiveness of DDAVP Nasal Spray.

Inform your healthcare provider about any changes inside your nose (scarring, swelling, congestion, or blockage) as they may affect how well the medication is absorbed. Your healthcare provider might need to adjust the dosage.

Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you experience illnesses causing water/mineral imbalance (fever, diarrhea, vomiting, infections) or conditions requiring increased fluid intake (hot weather, exercise, sweating). Your healthcare provider may need to adjust or stop DDAVP Nasal Spray treatment, especially for children and older adults.

Children and older adults are more susceptible to side effects, particularly water/mineral imbalance and low blood sodium.

Discuss the risks and benefits of using DDAVP Nasal Spray with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant.

Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding if you are using DDAVP Nasal Spray.

DDAVP Nasal Spray can rarely cause a serious or even fatal condition called hyponatremia. Several factors can increase this risk, including drinking excessive fluids, using certain medications (diuretics, corticosteroids), being over 65 years old, or having certain medical conditions. Regular lab tests (urine tests, blood sodium levels) are necessary before and during treatment.

Be aware of symptoms of hyponatremia and report them to your healthcare provider immediately. These include nausea, vomiting, headache, muscle weakness/cramps, unusual tiredness/drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, and mental/mood changes (confusion, irritability).

Get immediate medical attention if you experience very serious side effects, such as seizures or trouble breathing.

DDAVP Nasal Spray may interact with other medications. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take before starting DDAVP Nasal Spray.