Used with those who experience nocturia (the need to go to the toilet frequently
during the night). The drug can also be used during the day if regular access to
a toilet is not convenient, for instance during long haul travelling. However, it
is essential that the user recognises the possible dangers of retaining too much
water if it is used more than once in 24 hours. Desmopressin is usually taken orally
as a tablet.
Desmopressin is a synthetic antidiuretic hormone, which means that it suppresses
the production of urine by the kidneys. It can reduce urine production for six to
eight hours. It is a type of medicine called a vasopressin analogue which is similar
to a hormone produced naturally by the body, called vasopressin or antidiuretic hormone.
Desmopressin is similar in structure to natural ADH. It works by binding to the ADH
receptors in the kidneys, which mimics the effect of natural ADH. This reduces the
production of urine.
Antidiuretic hormone - ADH is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It is
involved in controlling the natural balance of water levels in the body. It normally
acts on receptors in the kidneys to prevent excessive amounts of water being filtered
out of the blood and into the urine which reduces the production of urine. Usually
more urine is produced during the day, and the kidneys concentrate the urine so less
is produced at night. This process is controlled by the antidiuretic hormone. If
the kidneys fail to concentrate urine in the night, it can cause bedwetting or the
need to go to the toilet a lot.
Eckford S, et al. Desmopressin in the treatment of nocturia and enuresis in people
with multiple sclerosis. British Journal of Urology 1994;74:733-735.
Side effects may occur such as:
Convulsions - rare
Confusion
Lowering of sodium levels in the blood - hyponatremia.
Nausea.
Vomiting.
Headache.
Note
If you suffer from vomiting or diarrhoea you should stop using this medicine until
you feel better.
Those with dependent oedema - an increase in fluid in the body, which can be caused
by inactivity or reduced mobility - should not use desmopressin.
It is important that you avoid excessive fluid intake while having treatment with
this medicine because it can lead to a build up of fluid in the body.
