In a nutshell
This study reviewed the safety and effectiveness of desmopressin for the treatment of nocturia. The authors found that desmopressin is an effective treatment for nocturia.
Some background
Nocturnal polyuria refers to more-than-normal urine production during the night. A hormone called vasopressin normally controls the production of urine. Desmopressin is a medication that acts like vasopressin and reduces urine production. This may help to treat nocturia when taken before bedtime. Several studies have recently investigated the effectiveness and safety of desmopressin for treating nocturia.
Methods & findings
This study reviewed data from 13 different clinical trials examining desmopressin in the treatment of nocturia.
Overall, patients treated with desmopressin showed a significant reduction in the number of nightly voids and in nighttime urine volume compared to patients not treated.
The first sleep period was also significantly increased with desmopressin treatment.
Five randomized trials compared side effects between desmopressin treatment and placebo, and found no significant difference in the rate of side effects such as headaches and nausea.
Several cases of hyponatremia (dangerously low blood sodium levels) were reported in three of the trials reviewed. However, desmopressin was overall well tolerated.
The bottom line
This study concluded that desmopressin is a relatively safe and effective treatment for nocturia.
The fine print
The clinical trials that were analyzed in this study were relatively short. Longer studies are needed to determine the long-term safety of desmopressin.
Hyponatremia associated with desmopressin treatment may pose a significant risk.
Published By :
International urology and nephrology
Date :
Apr 01, 2012
