Desmopressin tablets
What do desmopressin tablets do?
DESMOPRESSIN (DDAVP(R)) is a synthetic (laboratory-made) form of the hormone vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, or ADH) produced by the pituitary gland. Vasopressin helps to keep a regular balance of salts in the blood and to control the amount and frequency of urination. Without vasopressin too much water is lost in the urine. Desmopressin helps to prevent or control frequent urination, excessive thirst, and dehydration associated with diabetes insipidus or with certain brain injuries. Generic desmopressin tablets are not yet available.
What should my health care professional know before I receive desmopressin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• blood clotting disorders
• cystic fibosis
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• von Willebrand's disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to desmopressin, vasopressin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take desmopressin tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with desmopressin?
• alcohol
• barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures (convulsions)
• carbamazepine
• chlorpropamide
• cisplatin
• clofibrate
• cyclophosphamide
• demeclocycline
• epinephrine
• fludrocortisone
• heparin
• medicines for mental depression
• medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances
• medicines for pain
• vincristine
Tell your prescriber or health care professional: about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines; if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol; if you smoke; or if you use illegal drugs. These can affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects might I notice from taking desmopressin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• confusion
• drowsiness
• difficulty passing urine
• rapid weight gain
• severe or continuing headaches
• seizures (convulsions)
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• flushing (reddening) of the skin
• headache
• nausea
• stomach pain or cramps