Desmopressin
Also known as: DDAVP, Nocdurna, Stimate, dDAVP
A synthetic vasopressin analog FDA-approved for central diabetes insipidus, bedwetting, nocturia and certain bleeding disorders. Prescription medication.
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Mechanism of Action
Desmopressin (1-deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin) is a modified vasopressin that selectively activates V2 receptors in the kidney's collecting ducts. This inserts aquaporin-2 water channels and concentrates urine, reducing urine output. It has little V1 activity, so it causes minimal vasoconstriction. V2 stimulation on endothelial cells also releases von Willebrand factor and factor VIII, which is the basis for its use in mild hemophilia A and von Willebrand disease.
- Half-life
- ~1.5-3 hours
- Administration Routes
- Oral, Sublingual, Intranasal, Intravenous, Subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Clinical
Reported Benefits
- Replaces antidiuretic hormone in central diabetes insipidus
- Reduces primary nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children
- Reduces nighttime voids in nocturia due to nocturnal polyuria (Nocdurna)
- Raises factor VIII and von Willebrand factor in mild hemophilia A and type 1 von Willebrand disease
Potential Side Effects
- Hyponatremia, which can cause seizures, coma or death (boxed warning on nocturia products)
- Headache
- Water retention and weight gain
- Nasal irritation (nasal forms)
- Flushing and blood pressure changes with IV use
Common Dosing
Available as tablets, sublingual tablets, nasal spray and injection, each with its own labeled dosing; the dose depends on the condition, and fluid intake is restricted around doses with sodium monitored. Dosing is set and supervised by the prescribing clinician.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Hyponatremia or history of hyponatremia
- Moderate to severe renal impairment
- Polydipsia, SIADH, or conditions needing loop diuretics or systemic glucocorticoids (nocturia products)
- Heart failure or uncontrolled hypertension (nocturia products)
No documented stacking partners for Desmopressin yet.