TREATMENT OF DIABETES INSIPIDUS IN CHILDREN WITH DDAVP, A SYNTHETIC ANALOGUE OF VASOPRESSIN

Abstract

Summary The effects of a new, synthetic analogue of vasopressin, DDAVP (l‐deamino‐8‐d‐arginine vasopressin), was investigated in 10 children with diabetes insipidus due to deficient secretion of antidiuretic hormone. The lack of pressor activity, and the specific and long‐lasting antidiuretic effect of this preparation was confirmed. During an observation period of 8–19 months it was found that intranasal administration of 1.25‐10 μg of DDAVP twice daily was sufficient to normalize drinking and urine production in all the patients. No side effects were observed. It is concluded that DDAVP is a valuable alternative in the treatment of vasopressin sensitive diabetes insipidus in children, and that it is well suited for long‐term use.