What is Desmopressin Acetate: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Desmopressin Acetate overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • DDAVP

Generic Names:

  • Desmopressin Acetate

Uses:

  • Treats diabetes insipidus. Also treats bedwetting problems.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Endocrine-Metabolic Agent

Forms:

  • Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Desmopressin Acetate used for?

DDAVP is a man-made form of a hormone called vasopressin. Vasopressin controls the amount of urine the body makes. DDAVP replaces low levels of Vasopressin and controls the amount of urine your kidneys make.

What form(s) does Desmopressin Acetate come in

  • Tablet

What are common Desmopressin Acetate doses?

  • Tablet 0.1MG

  • Tablet 0.2MG

  • Vial 1ML of 4MCG/ML

  • Vial 10ML of 4MCG/ML

  • Ampule 1ML of 4MCG/ML

Common Desmopressin Acetate prescriptions

  • Desmopressin Acetate
    1ml of 4mcg/ml ampule

  • Desmopressin Acetate
    0.1mg tablet

  • Desmopressin Acetate
    0.2mg tablet

  • Desmopressin Acetate
    10ml of 4mcg/ml vial

  • Desmopressin Acetate
    1ml of 4mcg/ml vial

How to take Desmopressin Acetate

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

What to do if you miss a dose of Desmopressin Acetate

Desmopressin Acetate contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to desmopressin, or if you have moderate to severe kidney disease.

Desmopressin Acetate warnings

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, or cystic fibrosis.

  • This medicine may cause low levels of sodium in your blood. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about how much liquid to drink each day.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Desmopressin Acetate interactions

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, or cystic fibrosis.

  • This medicine may cause low levels of sodium in your blood. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about how much liquid to drink each day.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Desmopressin Acetate side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Seizure

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Confusion, weakness, muscle twitching, weight gain

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting

  • Headache, flushing