desmopressin nasal

Pronunciation:	DEZ mo press in
Brand:	DDAVP Nasal, DDAVP Rhinal Tube, Stimate Nasal Spray

What is the most important information I should know about desmopressin nasal?

Desmopressin nasal must be used correctly to be effective. The canister will need to be primed before you use it. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions and all directions that come with the package.

What is desmopressin nasal?

Desmopressin is a synthetic (man-made) form of the natural hormone arginine vasopressin. Arginine vasopressin is important in the regulation of blood and blood pressure, stomach and intestinal movement, the functioning of the uterus, and kidney function.

Desmopressin nasal is used to treat bed-wetting, central cranial diabetes insipidus, and increased thirst and urination resulting from head surgery or head trauma.

Desmopressin nasal may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using desmopressin nasal?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have

a nasal condition,
heart disease,
high blood pressure, or
cystic fibrosis.

You may not be able to use desmopressin nasal, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Desmopressin nasal is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not use desmopressin nasal without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether desmopressin nasal passes into breast milk. Do not use desmopressin nasal without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Children may be more likely to develop water intoxication during treatment with desmopressin. To reduce the chance of water intoxication, fluid intake should be restricted, and children should drink only enough to satisfy thirst.

Elderly patients may also be more likely to develop water intoxication during treatment with desmopressin. To reduce the chance of water intoxication, elderly patients should also restrict fluid intake and should drink only enough to satisfy thirst.

How should I use desmopressin nasal?

Use desmopressin nasal exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Gently blow your nose to clear any mucous. The first time you use a bottle of the nasal spray, prime the unit by pumping the bottle four times until medicine is at the tip of the unit. Insert the tip about 1 centimeter (just over one-third inch) into your nostril, pointing it straight up into the nasal canal. Block your other nostril and keep your head upright. Pump and sniff gently at the same time. If you are using another dose, repeat this procedure in your other nostril. Remove the pump from your nose. Try not to sneeze or blow your nose just after using the spray.

The DDAVP nasal-spray unit will deliver 25 doses (the 2.5 ml unit) or 50 doses (the 5 ml unit) of 10 micrograms each. After the 25 or 50 doses have been used, the unit may not deliver the proper amount of medicine. Throw away any remaining medicine. Do not transfer any remaining liquid into another bottle.

Desmopressin nasal must be used correctly to be effective. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions and all directions that come with the package.

Most forms of the nasal spray should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Some brand or generic forms of the nasal spray may require refrigeration. If refrigeration is required, do not allow the product to freeze. Follow the directions on the package.

Store the rhinal tubes in the refrigerator, unless otherwise directed. Do not let them freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and use only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a desmopressin nasal overdose include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, flushing, and seizures.

What should I avoid while using desmopressin nasal?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while you are using desmopressin nasal, unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What are the possible side effects of desmopressin nasal?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using desmopressin nasal and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
seizures;
headache;
nausea or abdominal cramps;
shortness of breath;
heartburn; or
pain in the vaginal area.

Other side effects may also occur. Notify your doctor if you experience

water retention;
flushing;
chills;
weakness;
dizziness;
red, itchy, or watery eyes; or
nasal congestion, nosebleed, or runny nose.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect desmopressin nasal?

Desmopressin nasal is not known to interact with other medicines. However, an interaction is always possible. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about desmopressin nasal written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Desmopressin nasal is available with a prescription generically and under the brand name DDAVP as a nasal spray and as a rhinal tube. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

DDAVP Nasal Spray--10 mcg per spray
DDAVP Rhinal Tube

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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