Using Desmopressin to Manage Diabetes Insipidus and Bedwetting

Abstract

Desmopressin and diabetes insipidus Diabetes is a condition that is characterized by the production of large amounts of dilute urine. It drains the water in the body, increasing thirst in an individual. It can also result in the imbalance of electrolytes in the body, such as sodium and potassium. It occurs due to stilted hormone production in the brain; hence the body cannot balance its fluid levels. Desmopressin is a medication used in treating diabetes insipidus resulting in prolonged half-life and duration of action compared to natural hormone (Richardson 1985). It is used for mild cases in controlling the water condition in the body. It is in tablet form and melts directly to enter the bloodstream. The drug is often taken at night to reduce bedwetting. It is taken in sips in 8 hours intervals to avoid fluid overload in the body. Our bodies have a vasopressin hormone that controls how fast or slow our fluids are excreted in our bodies. According to (Lethagen 1994), desmopressin is a synthetic analog of the natural hormone vasopressin. It contrasts vasopressin since it has no pressor activity. Desmopressin is mechanized. It is a natural antidiuretic hormone released by the pituitary glands and stored in the hypothalamus part of the human body, increasing the permeability of water in the renal tubular cells, hence increasing urine volume decreased concentration. Desmopressin works by mimicking the action of ADH and does not prevent the normal development of the child’s own ADH excretion (U.K. & N.C.G.C 2010). It is most effective in children. During the night, children can sleep without the need to pass urine. The drug is safe, with its side effects being minimal. The side effects include headaches, diarrhea, and emotional disturbance, which occur immediately after stopping the medication. Diabetes insipidus can be...