Desmospray

What is it?

A preparation which is a vasopressin analogue (ie a synthetic copy of vasopressin or antidiuretic hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland which acts to constrict blood vessels and reduces urine secretion by increasing the quantity of water reabsorbed by the kidney). Available as a metered dose nasal spray delivering 10µg of desmopressin acetate per spray.

Medical Uses

Treatment and diagnosis of cranial diabetes insipidus; Also, for testing of kidney function.

Dosage

Adults and children, treatment of diabetes insipidus, 1 to 2 sprays once or twice each day; diagnosis of diabetes insipidus, 2 sprays. Testing of kidney function, adults, 2 sprays in both nostrils; children, babies up to 12 months old, 1 spray; aged 1 to 15 years, 1 spray in both nostrils. In all cases, for diagnosis, drinking should be restricted to no more than half a litre of fluid from 1 hour before test to 8 hours afterwards.

Special Care

Pregnancy, heart and circulatory disease, kidney disorders, electrolyte imbalances. Alcohol abuse or psychogenic causes of excessive thirst should be excluded before testing or treatment. Fluid overload should be avoided.

Avoid Use

High blood pressure, inadequate heart function.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Chlorpromazine, indomethacin, carbamazepine, TCADs.

Known Side Effects

Nausea, headache, stomach ache, convulsions connected with low blood sodium levels.

Manufacturer

Ferring.