Desmopressin
Pronounced
"dess-mow-PRESS-in"
Uses
Desmopressin is used to control the amount of urine your kidneys make. Normally, the amount of urine you make is controlled by a certain substance in the body called vasopressin. In people who have "water diabetes" (diabetes insipidus) or certain kinds of head injury or brain surgery, the body does not make enough vasopressin. Desmopressin is a man-made form of vasopressin and is used to replace a low level of vasopressin. This medication helps to control increased thirst and too much urination due to these conditions, and helps prevent dehydration.
Desmopressin is also used to control bleeding caused by surgery or injuries in people with certain bleeding problems (hemophilia A, type 1 von Willebrand's disease). It works by helping the body 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
When this medication is used to control bleeding, it is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually over 15 to 30 minutes.
When this medication is used to control increased thirst and too much urination, it is given by injection into a vein or under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day. If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. If you have any questions about using this medication properly, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.
Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist for more details.
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. Do not use more desmopressin or use it more often than prescribed.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if this medication stops working well.
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