Desmopressin

About Desmopressin

This belongs to the group of medicines known as posterior pituitary hormones.

Desmopressin acts on the kidneys to reduce the flow of urine. It is therefore used to treat conditions characterised by the over-production of urine. Such as diabetes insipidus and nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting).

The surgical removal of the pituitary gland in the brain can also lead to the over-production of urine and excessive thirst. Desmopressin is also useful following such an operation.

Desmopressin is available in tablet, nasal spray, nasal drops and injection form.

It is also sometimes known as: DDAVP; Desmospray; Desmotabs; Nocutil. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Desmopressin

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart, liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure), asthma, epilepsy or migraines
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Desmopressin

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of desmopressin contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with the doctor so your progress can be checked.
• It is important not to drink too much fluid while you are taking desmopressin therefore you should follow any instructions that your doctor or pharmacist may have given you about reducing your fluid intake. You may also be advised not to swim while you are being treated with desmopressin. If you wish to go swimming, ask your doctor for advice.
• If you experience vomiting (being sick) or diarrhoea at any time during your treatment, stop taking desmopressin and contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice as soon as possible.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside desmopressin.

Can Desmopressin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Fluid retention (bloatedness and possible swelling, especially of the feet and ankles), stomach pain, headache, nausea (feeling sick) or vomiting (being sick).

If you are using desmopressin nasal spray, you may experience a stuffy, sore or bleeding nose.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Desmopressin

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 20/10/2003