DDAVP Nasal Solution

(Desmopressin Acetate)

The active ingredient in DDAVP nasal solution is desmopressin. Desmopressin is a synthetic form of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. It works by acting on vasopressin (V2) receptors in the kidneys, reducing the amount of urine produced and helping control excessive urination and thirst.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labelling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using DDAVP nasal solution. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of DDAVP nasal solution:

This medication is administered using a DDAVP rhinal tube system, not a metered DDAVP nasal spray.

Remove the plastic tag from the neck of the bottle and tear off the security seal. Remove the plastic cap and keep it for reclosure. Twist off the inner seal at the tip of the bottle and retain it for reclosure.

Attach the rhinyle tube by inserting the bottle tip into the arrow-marked end of the rhinyle. Gently squeeze the bottle until the solution reaches the prescribed graduation mark. Maintain steady pressure to prevent air bubbles. If filling is difficult, a syringe may be used to draw up the dose and load the rhinyle.

Hold the rhinyle 1.5 to 2 cm from the arrow-marked end and gently insert it into one nostril until your fingers touch the nostril while in an upright position.

Place the other end of the rhinyle in your mouth. Hold your breath, tilt your head back, and blow a short, strong puff through the tube to deliver the medication into the nasal cavity.

For children who cannot perform this step, the caregiver should place the free end of the rhinyle in their own mouth, tilt the child’s head back, and blow a short puff to deliver the dose.

After use, close the bottle using both the inner seal and the outer cap.

Rinse the rhinyle thoroughly under running water and shake out excess water. Allow it to dry before the next use.

Fluid intake must be limited from one hour before taking DDAVP Melt and until at least eight hours after the dose to reduce the risk of water retention and low sodium levels.

If you miss a dose, take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose.

This medication should not be used if you have a fever, are vomiting, have diarrhea, or are severely dehydrated.

This medication may cause low levels of sodium in your blood, and you will need regular bloodwork to monitor your sodium levels.

Some mild or common side effects of DDAVP nasal solution seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

Headache.

Nasal congestion or irritation.

Stuffy nose (rhinitis) or nosebleeds.

Nausea.

Mild fluid retention or weight gain.

Sore throat.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using DDAVP nasal solution. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

Hyponatremia may cause headache, nausea, muscle weakness, vomiting, confusion, seizures, loss of appetite, or loss of consciousness.

Water intoxication due to excessive fluid retention.

Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face or throat (anaphylaxis) and difficulty breathing.

Signs of taking too much DDAVP nasal solution such as drowsiness, headache, confusion, problems with passing urine, and sudden weight gain from fluid retention.

These are not all of the possible side effects of DDAVP nasal solution. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting DDAVP nasal solution, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

Conditions associated with fluid or electrolyte imbalance, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or severe dehydration.

Fever.

Bleeding problems.

Low sodium levels or a history of hyponatremia.

Heart failure, liver or kidney disease, or high blood pressure.

Cystic fibrosis or conditions associated with increased fluid intake.

Primary nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting).

Constant thirst.

Hyponatremia or a history of low sodium levels.

Bleeding problems such as Type II B or platelet-type (pseudo) Von Willebrand’s disease.

Any heart, liver, or kidney problems.

Known hypersensitivity or allergy to desmopressin or the preservative chlorobutanol.

It should begin to work within an hour of administration.

When DDAVP nasal solution is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Medications which may put you at an increased risk of hyponatremia or water intoxication: tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), carbamazepine, lamotrigine, chlorpropamide, chlorpromazine, clofibrate, diuretics (including furosemide), loperamide, and Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Medications that may reduce the effectiveness of DDAVP melt: demeclocycline, norepinephrine, and lithium.

It is available in doses of:

0.05 mL solution, containing 5 mcg.

0.1 mL solution, containing 10 mcg.

0.2 mL solution, containing 20 mcg.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

It is manufactured by Ferring Pharmaceuticals.

There is no generic version of the nasal solution available, but other dosage forms, such as tablets (brand-name Minirin) or nasal sprays (brand-names Noctiva and Stimate), are available in generic forms.

Do not stop using DDAVP Nasal Solution without consulting your healthcare provider, as symptoms may return if treatment is stopped abruptly.

DDAVP Nasal Solution should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and as advised by a healthcare provider.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Small amounts of desmopressin may pass into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.