FDA Warns of Desmopressin Acetate Side Effects

The Food and Drug Administration has asked for a label update for all formulations of desmopressin acetate. This includes the intranasal formulation and tablet form of the drug, both of which have been linked with serious side effects.

Desmopressin acetate was developed to mimic vasopressin, a type of naturally-occurring antidiuretic hormone that inhibits the immoderate loss of water through urine. Synthetic vasopressin in the form of desmopressin acetate has often been prescribed as a solution to primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), a bed-wetting disorder. However, recent studies have linked desmopressin - specifically the intranasal formulation - with serious and potentially life threatening side effects.

Desmopressin Side Effects and the FDA

Desmopressin has been linked with the potential development of severe hyponatremia and seizures. Hyponatremia is a condition in which the sufferer experiences abnormally low levels of sodium in their blood. Moderately low levels of sodium in the blood can cause cellular malfunction, and exorbitantly low levels can lead to death. Children are at an increased risk of developing desmopressin side effects.

An FDA study evaluated 61 seizure cases related to hyponatremia (two of which resulted in death). Of the 61 cases, 36 were linked with the intranasal formulation. Of these 36, 25 were children. Based on the results of the study, the FDA has suggested that intranasal desmopressin no longer be used for the treatment of PNE, and has requested that all desmopressin formulations include a warning alerting consumers to the hyponatremia and seizure risk associated with use of the drug.

Desmopressin formulations are marketed in a variety of ways, including:

• DDAVP Nasal Spray
• DDAVP Rhinal Tube
• DDAVP
• DDVP
• Minirin
• Stimate Nasal Spray

Patients currently taking any of the aforementioned desmopressin formulations are advised to consult with their physician to determine an appropriate course of action.

Desmopressin Acetate Lawsuits

Drug manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of their products before marketing them for public consumption. Failure to do so is considered negligent and grounds for personal injury litigation. The law offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz boast some of the most experienced Pensacola, Florida personal injury attorneys. They have successfully represented and obtained substantial compensation for a number of patients who have been harmed by drugs. Contact AWKO law today at (888) 255-AWKO (2956) to get more information about your rights as a Desmopressin Acetate injury victim. The lawyers of AWKO Law are also some of the best wrongful death Pensacola lawyers. These gifted attorneys have helped many consumers who have been harmed by recalled medical products, such as defective drugs.