Common use

DDAVP is a man-made form of a hormone that occurs naturally in the pituitary gland. This hormone affects blood pressure, kidney function, and regulating how the body uses water. DDAVP is used to treat central cranial diabetes insipidus, and increased thirst and urination caused by head surgery or head trauma.

Dosage and direction

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Before your first use, prime the nasal spray with 4 to 5 test sprays into the air. Prime again whenever the spray hasn't been used in longer than 3 days. Keep track of how many sprays you've used from each bottle. Each brand of desmopressin nasal contains a specific number of sprays per bottle.
Limit your intake of water and other fluids while you are using DDAVP. Drinking too much water can cause your body to lose sodium, which may lead to a serious, life-threatening electrolyte imbalance.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: nasal problems such as a runny or stuffy nose; a psychologic disorder that causes extreme or unusual thirst; an infection or illness with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea; congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease; kidney disease or being unable to urinate; a head injury or brain tumor; cystic fibrosis; or diabetes.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. DDAVP should not be used to treat excessive urination that is a normal condition of pregnancy.
It may not be safe to breastfeed a baby while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risks.
DDAVP may be less effective if you have any swelling or scarring inside your nose, or any nasal or sinus problems (such as deviated septum).

Contraindications

You should not use DDAVP if you are allergic to DDAVP.
Depending on your condition, you may not be able to use DDAVP if you have: a history of hyponatremia (low sodium levels in your body); uncontrolled high blood pressure; congestive heart failure; moderate to severe kidney disease; SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion); or a fever, infection, vomiting, diarrhea or any other condition that can cause excessive thirst, dehydration, or an electrolyte imbalance.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Possible side effect

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
DDAVP may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have: signs of low sodium - headache, confusion, hallucinations, muscle pain or weakness, drowsiness, vomiting, loss of appetite, and feeling restless or irritable; rapid weight gain, swelling in your feet or ankles; a seizure (convulsions); or nasal problems - runny or stuffy nose, sinus congestion.
Common side effects of DDAVP may include: stuffy nose, runny nose, sinus pain, sneezing, nosebleeds, discomfort in your nose; sore throat, cough; dizziness; increased blood pressure; nausea, stomach cramps; headache, back pain; or flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).

Drug interaction

Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with DDAVP. Your doctor may need to change your treatment plan if you also use: a "loop" diuretic (water pill) - bumetanide, ethacrynic acid, furosemide, torsemide; or an oral, inhaled, or injectable steroid medicine - budesonide, dexamethasone, fluticasone, mometasone, prednisone, and many others.

Missed dose

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include headache, confusion, drowsiness, rapid weight gain, or urination problems. Seek emergency medical attention.

Storage

Store DDAVP spray in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. If refrigeration is not available, you may keep the closed bottles at room temperature for up to 3 weeks. Keep the bottle in an upright position when not in use.