Desmopressin
Pronounced
"dess-mow-PRESS-in"
Uses
Desmopressin is used in people with certain bleeding problems (hemophilia A, type 1 von Willebrand's disease) to control bleeding caused by surgery, injuries, or heavy menstrual periods. This medication is a man-made form of a certain substance in the body called vasopressin that helps with normal blood clotting.
Warning
Desmopressin can rarely cause a low level of sodium in the blood (hyponatremia), which can be serious or even fatal. Drinking too much liquid, using certain medications (such as "water pills"/diuretics including furosemide, corticosteroids such as prednisone), being 65 years or older, or having certain medical conditions may increase the risk of low sodium in the blood. Lab tests (such as urine tests, sodium blood levels) must be done before you start using this medication and while you are using it. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of low sodium in the blood, such as nausea, vomiting, headache, muscle weakness/cramps, unusual tiredness, unusual drowsiness, dizziness, restlessness, mental/mood changes including confusion/irritability.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including seizure or trouble breathing.
How to Use This Medication
Read the patient instructions that come with this product before you start using desmopressin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Before using, follow the instructions on how to properly prime the bottle. Spray this medication in the nose as directed by your doctor. If the dose is more than 1 spray, spray half the dose in each nostril. For example, if the dose is 2 sprays, give 1 spray in each nostril.
Keep track of the number of sprays used from the container. Discard the container after you have used the number of sprays specified on the package.
If this medication is used by a child, a parent or other responsible adult should supervise and help the child use this medication properly.
Limit drinking of water and other fluids while using this medication, especially in children and older adults. Consult your doctor for details. If you find that you are drinking more fluids than directed, tell your doctor right away. Your treatment will need to be adjusted.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. You may need to use another dose if your doctor directs you to do so. This medication is not used on a regular schedule. Do not use more desmopressin or use it more often or for longer than prescribed.
If using before surgery, give the dose 2 hours before the procedure as directed.
Tell your doctor if your bleeding is not controlled.
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