DDAVP (Desmopressin)

• Take DDAVP (desmopressin) by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider for the treatment of diabetes insipidus, usually 2 to 3 times a day. 
• Take DDAVP by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider for the treatment of bedwetting, usually once a day at bedtime. 
• Limit the fluids children drink after dinner, especially 1 hour before the desmopressin dose until the next morning, or at least 8 hours after the dose. If your child wakes up during the night, limit the amount that your child drinks. 
• Consult your healthcare provider for details on fluid intake restrictions for patients taking desmopressin, especially children and older adults. 
• Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it, and to help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. 

• Do not take more desmopressin or take it more often than prescribed. 

The side effects of DDAVP (desmopressin) may vary from person to person.

Some common side effects that may occur include:

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

Serious side effects are rare but can occur.

• Low levels of sodium in the body, which may cause symptoms such as headache, confusion, muscle cramps, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, restlessness, or unsteadiness
• Flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
• Swelling or weight gain
• Seizures
• Weak or shallow breathing
• Light-headedness or feeling like you might pass out

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

Before taking DDAVP, it is important to be aware of the following warnings and precautions:

1. Allergies: Do not use DDAVP if you are allergic to desmopressin or any of its components.
2. Fluid Retention: DDAVP can cause fluid retention, which may worsen underlying conditions that are susceptible to volume status. Patients with heart failure or uncontrolled hypertension may be at increased risk. DDAVP is not recommended in patients at risk for increased intracranial pressure or those with a history of urinary retention. Limit fluid intake as advised by your healthcare provider.
3. Hyponatremia: DDAVP can cause hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood), which can be serious. It is contraindicated in patients with hyponatremia or a history of hyponatremia. Monitor sodium levels closely during treatment.
4. Hypotension and Hypertension: DDAVP can cause changes in blood pressure. Use with caution in patients with coronary artery insufficiency and/or hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Monitor blood pressure regularly.
5. Increased Risk of Thrombosis: DDAVP may increase the risk of thrombosis (formation of blood clots) in patients with von Willebrand's Disease Type IIB. Use with caution in these patients.
6. Hypersensitivity Reactions: DDAVP may cause hypersensitivity reactions. Seek medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
7. Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, as there may be potential interactions with DDAVP. Certain drugs, such as tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, chlorpromazine, opiate analgesics, thiazide diuretics, NSAIDs, lamotrigine, sulfonylureas, chlorpropamide, oxybutynin, and carbamazepine, may increase the risk of hyponatremia when used concomitantly with DDAVP