Desmopressin
Also known as: Stimate, DDAVP, Concentraid, D-Void, Defirin, Desmogalen, Desmospray, Desmotabs, Emosint, Minirin, Minurin, Nocutil, Octim, Octostim, Presinex
- **Administration Technique:** For diabetes insipidus, you will likely be instructed to place drops of the human *nasal spray* directly into your pet's eye (conjunctival sac). This is normal and is the most effective way for pets to absorb the medication. - **Storage:** Keep the solution refrigerated (2-8°C) whenever possible to maintain its effectiveness. - **Lifelong Therapy:** Understand that for central diabetes insipidus, this medication is a *treatment*, not a cure. Strict compliance with the daily dosing schedule is essential to prevent your pet from experiencing severe thirst and excessive urination. - **Cost:** This medication can be expensive for long-term use; discuss any financial concerns with your veterinarian. - **Water Intake:** Ensure your pet always has access to water, but monitor for signs of lethargy or weakness, which could indicate water intoxication if the dose is too high.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Differentiate central diabetes insipidus from nephrogenic form
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus (oral alternative)
- Diagnosis of diabetes insipidus
- Diagnosis of diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Complete and partial central diabetes insipidus
- Central diabetes insipidus
- Trial in place of water deprivation test
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Eye irritation (following conjunctival administration)
- Hypersensitivity reactions
- Fluid retention (with overdosage)
- Hyponatremia (with overdosage)
- Headache (reported in humans)
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to desmopressin
- Type IIB or platelet-type (pseudo) Von Willebrand's disease (may cause platelet aggregation and thrombocytopenia; notably seen in German Shorthair Pointers)
- Hyponatraemia (specifically for modified water deprivation test)
- Renal disease (specifically for modified water deprivation test)
- Dehydration (specifically for modified water deprivation test)
- Hypercalcaemia (specifically for modified water deprivation test)
- Use with extreme caution in patients susceptible to thrombotic events. When used to stimulate von Willebrand factor, repeated administration will cause tachyphylaxis (diminishing efficacy) within 24 hours. Safe use during pregnancy is not fully established (FDA Category B), though animal studies at high doses showed no fetal harm. Likely safe during nursing.
Drug interactions
- Chlorpropamide: May enhance the antidiuretic effects of desmopressin
- Fludrocortisone: May enhance the antidiuretic effects of desmopressin
- Urea: May enhance the antidiuretic effects of desmopressin
Frequently asked questions
What is Desmopressin used for in pets?
- **Administration Technique:** For diabetes insipidus, you will likely be instructed to place drops of the human *nasal spray* directly into your pet's eye (conjunctival sac). This is normal and is the most effective way for pets to absorb the medication. - **Storage:** Keep the solution refrigerated (2-8°C) whenever possible to maintain its effectiveness. - **Lifelong Therapy:** Understand that for central diabetes insipidus, this medication is a *treatment*, not a cure. Strict compliance with the daily dosing schedule is essential to prevent your pet from experiencing severe thirst and excessive urination. - **Cost:** This medication can be expensive for long-term use; discuss any financial concerns with your veterinarian. - **Water Intake:** Ensure your pet always has access to water, but monitor for signs of lethargy or weakness, which could indicate water intoxication if the dose is too high.
Is Desmopressin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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