Desmopressin acetate is a prescription medication that acts as a synthetic hormonal anti-diuretic for the treatment of a variety of medical conditions. The primary uses of this medication include the treatment of diabetes insipidus, polyuria, and polydipsia. Some of the most commonly reported side effects of desmopressin acetate include nausea, headache, and abdominal pain. More serious side effects of this drug may include increased blood pressure, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Any questions or concerns about the use of desmopressin acetate or possible side effects should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
The primary use of desmopressin acetate is the treatment of a medical condition known as diabetes insipidus. This disorder causes excessive thirst that is not lessened by the consumption of fluids. Specific symptoms that may be related to this condition and treated with the use of desmopressin acetate include polyuria and polydipsia. Polyuria is a medical term used to describe an excessive increase in urine volume, while polydipsia refers to the unquenchable thirst associated with diabetes insipidus. These symptoms may sometimes develop in those who do not have this form of diabetes.
Many of the side effects of desmopressin acetate are mild in nature and do not cause any significant problems, although any new symptoms that develop after beginning treatment with this medication should be reported to a doctor for further evaluation. Headaches, nausea, and mild abdominal pain are among the most common side effects of this drug and usually become less noticeable as the body adjusts to the medication. Symptoms that persist or become bothersome should be reported to a member of the medical staff. In many cases, the dosage can be changed in order to reduce the severity of the side effects, but these changes should be made by only the prescribing physician.
Potentially serious side effects of desmopressin acetate that should be reported to a doctor right away include changes to the mental state, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. Excessive vomiting, seizures, or a partial or total loss of consciousness may indicate the presence of severe complications and should be reported immediately. Personality changes, visual disturbances, or severe abdominal pain should be evaluated by a medical professional as well. Swelling of the face or throat that is accompanied by breathing difficulties may indicate the development of a potentially fatal type of allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis and should be treated as a medical emergency.