Chemistry
Desmopressin occurs as limited form of the normal man vasopressin, which 1-desamino-8-D-arginine adh. Antidiuretic hormone occurs as an octapeptide (a chain of eight amino acids). Within desmopressin, a number 1 amino acid has been deaminated, and a arginine at the eighth position is in the levo like than a normal dextro form (watch stereochemistry for elaboration on the terms).

Method of action
Desmopressin binds to V2 receptor in renal collecting ducts increasing water reabsorption. It too causes release of factor VIII from platelets due to stimulation of the V1a receptor.

Desmopressin is degraded very much slower than recombinant vasopressin, and takes less frequent administration. Additionally, it has there is no influence in blood pressure, while pitressin might induced arterial hypertension.

Uses
Desmopressin is utilized to reduce urine production in central diabetes insipidus patients and to promote a production von Willebrand factor and factor VIII in patients with coagulation disorders including type I von Willebrand disease, hemophilia A, and thrombocytopenia. It could besides exist as prescribed to reduce frequent bedwetting episodes in tykes.

Side effects
headaches facial flushing nausea