Desmopressin

Description

Desmopressin is a prescription medication that may be prescribed by veterinarians for dogs and cats with central diabetes insipidus. It is a synthetic analog of vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone, and helps the kidneys conserve water by reducing excessive urine production.

Desmopressin may also be prescribed by veterinarians for certain other conditions where its antidiuretic or hemostatic effects may be beneficial. Veterinary use of human desmopressin products is extra-label and should be closely supervised by a veterinarian.

Uses & Benefits

• Used in the management of central diabetes insipidus in dogs and cats

• Helps reduce excessive urine production associated with antidiuretic hormone deficiency

• Helps the kidneys conserve water

• May help reduce excessive thirst associated with central diabetes insipidus as urine concentration improves

• May be prescribed for certain other veterinarian-determined uses

How It Works

Desmopressin is a synthetic analog of vasopressin, the body's natural antidiuretic hormone. It acts primarily on receptors in the kidneys to increase water reabsorption, resulting in decreased urine production and more concentrated urine.

Desmopressin also promotes the release of von Willebrand factor and factor VIII, which accounts for its hemostatic effects in certain clinical applications.

Indications

Central Diabetes Insipidus in Dogs and Cats / Other Veterinarian-Directed Uses of Desmopressin

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Desmopressin Acetate

Inactive Ingredients:

Inactive ingredients vary by manufacturer. Refer to the dispensed manufacturer's labeling for complete inactive ingredient information.

Directions

Follow the prescription label exactly and veterinarian directions.

Give the tablets exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. The amount, frequency, and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated and the individual animal's response.

Do not change the dose or discontinue treatment without consulting your veterinarian.

Cautions

• For veterinary use only as prescribed.

• Keep out of reach of children and animals.

• Do not give this medication to any animal other than the one for which it was prescribed.

• Use cautiously in animals with conditions that may be worsened by fluid retention.

• Desmopressin can cause excessive water retention and abnormally low blood sodium levels.

• Tell your veterinarian about all medications, vitamins, and supplements your pet receives.

• Contact your veterinarian promptly if unusual weakness, lethargy, vomiting, confusion, swelling, or other concerning signs occur.

Possible Side Effects

Water Retention / Low Blood Sodium / Swelling / Weight Gain / Vomiting / Decreased Appetite / Lethargy / Weakness / Headache or Restlessness / Serious Neurologic Effects With Severe Hyponatremia

Precautions

Desmopressin can cause water retention and hyponatremia if excessive amounts of water are retained. Your veterinarian may recommend monitoring hydration status, urine production, body weight, blood sodium, or other laboratory values during treatment.

Use cautiously in animals with kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, electrolyte abnormalities, or other conditions where changes in fluid balance could present additional risks.

Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established for veterinary use. Use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals only under veterinarian direction.

Storage

Storage requirements may vary by tablet manufacturer. Store according to the dispensing label and the manufacturer's instructions. Keep the medication securely stored away from children and animals.

Disposal

Dispose of unused or expired Desmopressin Tablets through a medication take-back program when available or according to applicable local medication disposal requirements. Keep discarded medication and packaging securely inaccessible to children and animals.