DDAVP Nasal Spray

(Desmopressin Acetate)

The active ingredient in DDAVP nasal spray is desmopressin. Desmopressin is a synthetic form of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. It reduces the amount of urine produced by the kidneys to help 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 spray. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of DDAVP nasal spray:

Desmopressin nasal spray does not work like other nasal sprays and is not supposed to be sniffed like cold or allergy sprays.

Gently blow your nose. If your nose is blocked due to a cold or allergies, DDAVP may not work as well.

Do not shake the bottle. Remove the protective cap.

Prime the spray pump before first use by pressing down 4 times.

Tilt the bottle so the dip tube inside draws from the deepest portion of the medication.

Place the spray nozzle in a nostril and press the spray pump once for a 10 mcg dose.

For a child, tilt their head back slightly and insert the nozzle into one nostril. Ask the child to take a deep breath in and hold their breath while the spray is given. Press down firmly on the white collar to deliver the spray. After spraying, have the child hold their nostril closed and slowly count to 10 before releasing.

If a higher dose is prescribed, spray half the dose in each nostril. The spray pump cannot be used for doses less than 10 mcg or doses other than multiples of 10 mcg.

Replace the protective cap after use.

The pump will stay primed for up to one week, and if not used for one week, re-prime by pressing once.

Fluid intake must be limited from one hour before taking DDAVP 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 it as soon as possible and then go back to your regular dosing schedule, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and do not 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 spray seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

Headache.

Nausea.

Mild abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort.

Stuffy nose or nasal irritation.

Runny nose (rhinitis).

Facial flushing.

Nosebleed.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using DDAVP nasal spray. 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 (low blood sodium) may cause muscle weakness, confusion, severe headache, nausea, sudden weight gain, vomiting, or convulsions.

Water intoxication due to excessive fluid retention.

Severe allergic reactions, including swelling, rash, hives, wheezing, or anaphylaxis.

These are not all of the possible side effects of DDAVP nasal spray. 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 spray, 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 benzalkonium chloride.

It should begin to work within an hour of administration.

When DDAVP nasal spray 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: demeclocycline, norepinephrine, and lithium.

Each DDAVP metered dose spray pump contains 89 mcg desmopressin, and each spray delivers 10 mcg of desmopressin. It is available in bottles containing 2.5mL (25 doses) or 5mL (50 doses).

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

It is manufactured by Ferring Pharmaceuticals.

No, but it is also available under the brand names Noctiva or Stimate nasal spray.

Do not stop taking DDAVP nasal spray without consulting your healthcare provider, as symptoms may return if treatment is stopped abruptly.

It 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.