Desmopressin Acetate
Desmopressin Acetate is a synthetic analogue of the natural posterior pituitary hormone arginine vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone or ADH). It acts primarily as a selective agonist of V2 receptors in the renal collecting ducts, increasing water reabsorption and reducing urine volume. It also increases plasma levels of Factor VIII and von Willebrand factor, aiding in blood clotting for specific hematological conditions.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosages must be highly individualized according to the clinical response and the specific condition being treated (e.g., bedwetting vs. diabetes insipidus). Fluid intake must be restricted from 1 hour before until 8 hours after administration to prevent hyponatremia and water intoxication.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Highly contraindicated in infants due to extreme risk of fluid overload and severe hyponatremic seizures. Use only under strict specialist supervision.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Indication-dependent
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Requires intense monitoring of fluid balance and serum sodium levels. Only initiated by specialists for central diabetes insipidus.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg to 0.1 mg (oral equivalent) or titrated nasal dose
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily (as directed)
- Tracking Notes
- Mainly indicated for central diabetes insipidus. Strict fluid restriction is mandatory.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg (oral equivalent) or individualized dose
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily (as directed)
- Tracking Notes
- Dosage adjusted depending on the urine volume and osmolality response. Monitor closely for signs of headache or nausea.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg at bedtime (for bedwetting) or weight-adjusted dose for bleeding disorders
- Frequency
- Once daily at bedtime (for enuresis)
- Tracking Notes
- For bedwetting, ensure no liquids are consumed 1 hour before and 8 hours after taking the dose. Discontinue if hyponatremia is suspected.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Highly contraindicated in infants due to extreme risk of fluid overload and severe hyponatremic seizures. Use only under strict specialist supervision. |
| 5-7 kg | Not routine / Indication-dependent | Use only if prescribed | Requires intense monitoring of fluid balance and serum sodium levels. Only initiated by specialists for central diabetes insipidus. |
| 8-10 kg | 0.05 mg to 0.1 mg (oral equivalent) or titrated nasal dose | 1 to 2 times daily (as directed) | Mainly indicated for central diabetes insipidus. Strict fluid restriction is mandatory. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg (oral equivalent) or individualized dose | 1 to 2 times daily (as directed) | Dosage adjusted depending on the urine volume and osmolality response. Monitor closely for signs of headache or nausea. |
| 16-20 kg | 0.1 mg to 0.2 mg at bedtime (for bedwetting) or weight-adjusted dose for bleeding disorders | Once daily at bedtime (for enuresis) | For bedwetting, ensure no liquids are consumed 1 hour before and 8 hours after taking the dose. Discontinue if hyponatremia is suspected. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to control or prevent symptoms of central diabetes insipidus, temporary polyuria and polydipsia following head trauma or surgery, primary nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting), and to maintain hemostasis in patients with mild to moderate Hemophilia A or von Willebrand's Disease (Type I).
Generic Name
Desmopressin AcetateBranded Drug Names
Desmopressin Acetate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.