What is the most important information I should know about DDAVP?

Do not inject any medication that is cloudy or discolored or that has particles in it.

What is DDAVP?

DDAVP is a synthetic (man-made) form of the natural hormone arginine vasopressin. Arginine vasopressin is important in the regulation of blood, blood pressure, stomach and intestinal movement, uterine function and kidney function.

DDAVP is used to treat hemophilia A, von Willebrand's disease (Type I) and cranial diabetes insipidus.

DDAVP may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking DDAVP?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

Type II von Willebrand's disease,

heart disease,

high blood pressure, or

cystic fibrosis.

If you have any of the conditions listed above you may not be able to take DDAVP, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring.

DDAVP is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take DDAVP without talking first to your doctor if you are pregnant.

Do not take DDAVP without talking to your doctor first if you are breast-feeding a baby. It is not known whether DDAVP passes into breast milk.

Children may be more likely to develop water intoxication during treatment with DDAVP. To reduce the chance of water intoxication, fluid intake should be restricted and children should drink only enough to satisfy thirst. DDAVP should not be used to treat von Willebrand's disease or hemophilia A in children younger than 3 months of age. For children younger than 12 years of age, the safety and effectiveness of DDAVP in the treatment of diabetes insipidus is not known.

Elderly patients may also be more likely to develop water intoxication during treatment with DDAVP. To reduce the chance of water intoxication, elderly patients should restrict fluid intake and drink only enough to satisfy thirst.

How should I take DDAVP?

Take DDAVP exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to explain them to you.

Each oral dose should be taken with a full glass of water.

The injectable forms of DDAVP are only for subcutaneous injection (under the skin) or intravenous injection (into the vein). If you are administering this medication at home, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to give yourself the injection. Do not inject this medication if you are not sure how.

Do not inject any medication that is cloudy or discolored or that has particles in it.

Never reuse a needle or syringe. Dispose of all needles and syringes in an appropriate puncture-resistant disposal container.

Store the tablets at room temperature away from light and heat.

Store the injections in the refrigerator. Do not let them freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a DDAVP overdose include nausea, headache, vomiting, stomach cramps, flushing and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking DDAVP?

There are no restrictions on food, beverages or activities while you are taking DDAVP unless your doctor directs otherwise.

What are the possible side effects of DDAVP?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking DDAVP and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

seizures;

headache;

nausea or abdominal cramps;

shortness of breath;

heartburn; or

pain in the vaginal area.

Other side effects may also occur. Notify your doctor if you experience

water retention;

flushing;

chills;

increased heart rate;

weakness;

dizziness;

red or watery eyes; or

redness, pain or swelling at the injection site.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect DDAVP?

There are no known interactions between DDAVP and other medications. However, interactions are possible. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.