DDAVP (Desmopressin) is a prescription medication used to control bedwetting in adults and children at least 6 years old who have normal kidney function but struggle with nighttime bedwetting. It is also used to prevent or control bleeding during minor surgeries or injuries in people with hemophilia A or Von Willebrand's disease (Type 1). The active ingredient in DDAVP is Desmopressin. Desmopressin belongs to a class of medications known as synthetic analogues of vasopressin (a natural hormone that helps control the balance of water in the body). It works by acting on V2 receptors in the kidneys, helping the kidneys reabsorb more water back into the body instead of releasing it as urine. Desmopressin also causes the body to release clotting factors, helping blood clot properly and reducing bleeding during surgery or injury.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand DDAVP from Canada and India, manufactured by Ferring, in the following strengths: 0.2 mg tablets, 10 mcg/2.5 ml nasal spray, and 60 mcg, 120 mcg, and 240 mcg injections. The generic Desmopressin is also available from Canada by a different manufacturer in strengths of 0.1 mg and 0.2 mg tablets, as well as 10 mcg/25 dose and 10 mcg/50 dose nasal sprays.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using DDAVP. The most common side effects of DDAVP may include the following:
• Abdominal pain;
• Dizziness;
• Headache;
• Nasal congestion or nosebleed (with nasal spray);
• Nausea;
• Redness of face
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Changes in blood pressure;
• Fluid overload, including swelling, weight gain, and shortness of breath;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of low blood sodium, such as severe headache, muscle weakness, seizures, vomiting, and confusion
These are not all the side effects of DDAVP. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use DDAVP if you are allergic to Desmopressin or any ingredient in DDAVP. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a history of hyponatremia;
• Have any condition causing electrolyte imbalance;
• Have any history of seizures;
• Have congestive heart failure;
• Have cystic fibrosis;
• Have kidney or heart problems;
• Have moderate to severe kidney problems;
• Have Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH);
• Have uncontrolled hypertension
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between DDAVP and other medicines, such as carbamazepine, naproxen, lithium, chlorpropamide, oxycodone, oxybutynin, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. The safety and effectiveness of DDAVP in pregnancy have not been established. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when pregnant with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Desmopressin is excreted in breast milk, but the quantities are generally considered too small to harm a nursing infant. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when breastfeeding with your doctor.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. DDAVP is available in various forms, including tablets, a nasal spray, and an injection. Take the oral tablets one to three times daily with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Do not take too much fluid when taking your drug. Prime the pump of the nasal spray before the first use. Insert the tip into one nostril, keeping your head slightly forward. Spray the medicine. Use DDAVP nasal spray one to two times daily, as directed by your doctor. The injectable form of this medicine should be administered intravenously (in the veins) or subcutaneously (under the skin) by your doctor. Following strict fluid restriction when using this medicine is especially important if you are using it to control nighttime bedwetting. Limit your fluid intake for at least 8 hours before and after your dose. Store the nasal spray and injection in the refrigerator. Store the oral tablets at room temperature. Keep out of the reach of children.