Desmopressin (DDAVP)
Hormonal Peptidefda_approvedAlso known as: DDAVP, Stimate, Minirin, 1-deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin
A synthetic analog of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) that is one of the most widely prescribed peptide drugs worldwide. Used for diabetes insipidus, bedwetting, and bleeding disorders.
Overview
Desmopressin is a synthetic modification of the natural hormone vasopressin (ADH) with enhanced antidiuretic activity and minimal blood pressure effects. It is one of the most successful peptide drugs in history, prescribed to millions of patients worldwide. By selectively activating V2 receptors in the kidneys, desmopressin reduces urine production and is the standard treatment for central diabetes insipidus, primary nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting), and certain bleeding disorders including von Willebrand disease.
Mechanism of Action
Desmopressin works through selective V2 vasopressin receptor agonism: (1) Activates V2 receptors on renal collecting duct cells; (2) Triggers insertion of aquaporin-2 water channels into cell membranes; (3) Increases water reabsorption from urine back into the bloodstream; (4) Reduces urine volume and increases urine concentration; (5) Stimulates release of von Willebrand factor and Factor VIII from endothelial cells (hemostatic effect); (6) Minimal V1 receptor activation means less blood pressure effect than natural vasopressin.
Molecular Formula
C46H64N14O12S2
Molecular Weight
1069.22 g/mol
Sequence
1-deamino-Cys-Tyr-Phe-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-D-Arg-Gly-NH2
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
0.1mg – 0.4mg
Frequency
2-3 times daily
Route
oral tablet
Cycle Length
Ongoing
Oral: 0.1-0.8mg/day in divided doses. Nasal: 10-40mcg/day. Adjust based on urine output and serum sodium.
Source: FDA prescribing information
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
0.1-0.2mg tablets, 30ct
Last Updated
2026-02
Generic widely available. Very affordable. Multiple formulations.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| severe | |
| mild | |
| mild | |
| mild | |
| moderate |
Pros & Cons
FDA-approved with decades of safety data
Multiple convenient formulations (oral, nasal, injection)
Life-changing for diabetes insipidus patients
Highly effective for bedwetting
Also helps with bleeding disorders
Well-understood pharmacology
Risk of hyponatremia (dangerous low sodium)
Requires fluid restriction
Multiple daily doses for some indications
Nasal absorption affected by congestion
Not effective for nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
FDA-approved. Available by prescription worldwide. Multiple formulations: oral tablets, nasal spray, injectable.
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