Desmopressin Acetate (marketed as DDAVP Nasal Spray, DDAVP Rhinal Tube, DDAVP, DDVP, Minirin, and Stimate Nasal Spray)

Audience: Endocrinologists, pediatricians, other healthcare professionals
[Posted 12/04/2007] FDA notified healthcare professionals and patients of the Agency's request that manufacturers update the prescribing information for desmopressin acetate to include important new safety information about severe hyponatremia and seizures.

Certain patients, including children treated with the intranasal formulation of the drug for primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), are at risk for developing severe hyponatremia that can result in seizures and death.

As such, desmopressin intranasal formulations are no longer indicated for the treatment of primary nocturnal enuresis and should not be used in hyponatremic patients or patients with a history of hyponatremia.

PNE treatment with desmopressin tablets should be interrupted during acute illnesses that may lead to fluid and/or electrolyte imbalance.

All desmopressin formulations should be used cautiously in patients at risk for water intoxication with hyponatremia.

see also:

Zelnorm FDA Health Alert: Zelnorm Discontinued Due to Life-Threatening Risks
Risk of heart attack, strokes found with Zelnorm; drug is discontinued

Depakote Study: Depakote Epilepsy Drug Can Increase Risk for Newborns
Depakote Epilepsy Drug Can Cause Mental Deficits in Children of Users

2007 Health Advisories Pre-made Colistimethate May Link to Cystic Fibrosis Patient's Death
Cystic Fibrosis Patient Dies After Using Pre-Mixed Colistimethate