Examples
| Generic Name | Brand Name |
|---|
| desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) | Concentraid |
How It Works
Desmopressin increases the amount of
clotting factor VIII, which helps blood to clot. It is available in a nasal spray form that is often prescribed. Desmopressin can also be injected.
Why It Is Used
Desmopressin is used for people with mild to moderate
von Willebrand's disease. It is usually taken before
dental and minor surgical procedures to help prevent severe bleeding.
Desmopressin can also help control mild bleeding episodes. Some women may use
desmopressin to lighten heavy menstrual periods. And some people use it before taking part in sports.
Desmopressin should not be used to treat:
- A person with type 2b or type 3 von Willebrand's
disease.
- An infant younger than 3 months of age.
- A
person with serious injuries.
- A person diagnosed with advanced
hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
How Well It Works
Desmopressin usually will stop bleeding in people who have mild to
moderate von Willebrand's disease (type 1). However, the drug's effectiveness
varies with each individual.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include:
- Fluid retention.1
- Mild
increase in pulse or blood pressure.
- Redness of the face and neck
(flushing).
- Headache.
- Nausea.
- Rarely, a
blood clot in a vein (thrombosis).1
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference
is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
This medicine:
- May become ineffective if used too often.
- Should be
used with caution in people who have a fluid or electrolyte
imbalance.
- Is inexpensive compared to clotting factor replacement
therapy.
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