Desmopressin
Desmopressin is a synthetic analog of the natural hormone vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone). It works primarily by reducing urine production and increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. The medication is commonly prescribed for conditions involving excessive urination and for certain bleeding disorders.
Desmopressin is a synthetic hormone used to treat diabetes insipidus, nocturnal enuresis, and some bleeding disorders by reducing urine output and promoting water retention.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- H01BA02
- RxNorm
- 3251
- Generic
- Desmopressin
- Class
- atc-h01
- Brands
- Noctiva, DDAVP, Nocdurna, Desmoda
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- safe
- Routes
- nasal, sublingual, oral
- Forms
- injection, spray, solution, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 100-200 mcg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 50-100 mcg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 50 mcg at bedtime
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
10 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks to fetus
regular fetal monitoring recommended
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesterreduce dose if needed
use with caution close to delivery due to potential effects on uterine contractility
monitor uterine activity and fetal well-being
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse lowest effective dose
monitor infant for signs of water intoxication or hyponatremia
observe infant for lethargy, irritability, seizures
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children 6 to 12weight-based dosing required
approved for nocturnal enuresis in children 6 years and older; start with lowest dose
monitor fluid intake, weight, and serum sodium levels
pediatric_age
children under 6not recommended
use only for diabetes insipidus when clearly needed
closely monitor serum sodium and fluid balance
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lowest dose
increased sensitivity to antidiuretic effects; increased risk of hyponatremia
regular monitoring of serum sodium, fluid status, and weight
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mildreduce dose
use with caution; monitor renal function
monitor serum sodium and renal function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
moderate to severeavoid use
contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment
n/a
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno specific adjustment needed
use with caution; monitor fluid balance
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
alcohol_users
concurrent useavoid alcohol
alcohol can potentiate antidiuretic effect and increase risk of severe hyponatremia
avoid alcohol consumption during treatment
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
FDA approval year
FDA approval for Noctiva (desmopressin) for nocturnal polyuria
Drug class
ATC code H01AA02 - Pituitary and hypothalamic hormones and analogues
Primary indications
Therapeutic indications for desmopressin
Mechanism of action
Primary pharmacodynamic mechanism
Desmopressin is primarily used to treat central diabetes insipidus (a condition causing excessive thirst and urination due to low vasopressin levels). It is also prescribed for primary nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) in children and for managing bleeding in hemophilia A and von Willebrand disease type 1.
Desmopressin acts on V2 receptors in the kidney tubules, promoting the insertion of aquaporin channels that increase water reabsorption. This reduces urine output and increases urine concentration, while causing minimal effects on blood pressure compared to natural vasopressin.
Fluid intake should be restricted following administration to prevent water intoxication and hyponatremia (low sodium levels). Patients with renal impairment, SIADH, or uncontrolled hypertension should generally avoid this medication. Common side effects include headache, nausea, and abdominal cramps.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy