Desmopressin
Vasopressin Analog (V2 selective)Also known as: DDAVP · Stimate · Minirin
A synthetic vasopressin analog with selective V2 receptor activity. FDA approved for diabetes insipidus, nocturnal enuresis, & hemophilia A/von Willebrand disease.
Typical Dose
10–40 mcg intranasal 1–2x/day (DI); 0.1–0.4 mg oral (enuresis); 0.3 mcg/kg IV (hemostasis)
Route
Intranasal, oral, subcutaneous, or IV
Cycle
Ongoing (DI); as needed (hemostasis, enuresis)
Half-life
~75 minutes (IV); 3–4 hours (intranasal)
Storage
Refrigerate nasal solution. Tablets: room temp.
Overview
Desmopressin (1-deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin, DDAVP) is a synthetic vasopressin analog with D-arginine at position 8 & deamination of the N-terminus. These modifications eliminate V1-mediated vasoconstriction while greatly potentiating V2-mediated antidiuresis, creating a selective antidiuretic agent 10x more potent & 2–3x longer-acting than native AVP.
Clinical indications include central diabetes insipidus, primary nocturnal enuresis, & hemostasis in mild hemophilia A or von Willebrand disease (via V2-mediated vWF & factor VIII release from endothelium).
Quick Start Guide
Clinical use only. Intranasal, oral, or SubQ depending on indication & formulation.
Research Indications
Central diabetes insipidus
Most EffectiveFirst-line treatment. Selective antidiuresis without vasopressor effects.
Nocturnal enuresis
Most EffectiveFDA approved. Reduces nocturnal urine production.
Hemostasis (hemophilia A / vWD)
Most EffectiveFDA approved. IV DDAVP releases stored vWF & factor VIII for minor procedures.
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Headache
- Nasal congestion (intranasal)
- Hyponatremia (especially in children)
Uncommon
- Seizures (hyponatremia-related)
- Facial flushing
- Tachycardia
When to Stop
- Hyponatremia or SIADH risk
- Heart failure or renal insufficiency
- Signs of allergic reaction
How to Reconstitute
Commercial product in multiple forms.
Dosing math: Clinical product only.
Quality Indicators
Good — use as normal
- Per manufacturer
Discard immediately
- Per manufacturer
What to Expect
Acute
Antidiuretic effect within 30–60 min of intranasal dosing. Duration 8–12 hours.
Community Insights
Self-reported. Reflects user experience, not clinical outcomes.
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