Desmopressin
Desmopressin (DDAVP, vasopressin analogue)
Also known as: DDAVP
An FDA-approved vasopressin analogue for diabetes insipidus, bedwetting, and certain bleeding disorders.
Overview
Desmopressin is a synthetic analogue of vasopressin selectively active at the kidney's water-retention receptor, without the blood-pressure effect. It is FDA-approved for central diabetes insipidus, nighttime bedwetting, and to boost clotting factors in mild hemophilia and von Willebrand disease. It is a long-established, approved peptide drug.
Mechanism of action
Selectively activates V2 receptors to concentrate urine and release stored clotting factor VIII and von Willebrand factor.
Key studies & citations
- Human1977
1-Deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin: a new pharmacological approach to the management of haemophilia and von Willebrands' diseases
First demonstration that DDAVP raises factor VIII-related activity enough to permit surgery in mild hemophilia and von Willebrand disease.
The Lancet - Review2003
Cellular mechanisms of the hemostatic effects of desmopressin (DDAVP)
DDAVP raises plasma von Willebrand factor, factor VIII and t-PA; reviews its use in VWD, hemophilia A and platelet disorders.
Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis - Review2025
Desmopressin for nocturnal enuresis in children
95 studies: desmopressin reduced wet nights by about 1.8 per week versus placebo; low to moderate certainty evidence.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Frequently asked questions
Why does desmopressin help bleeding disorders?
It triggers release of stored clotting factor VIII and von Willebrand factor, which temporarily improves clotting in mild hemophilia and von Willebrand disease.