Treatment of central diabetes insipidus in adults and children with desmopressin.

Modification of the natural vasopressin molecule to form desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) resulted in a compound with prolonged antidiuretic activity and virtual elimination of vasopressor activity. Twenty-one patients with central diabetes insipidus who ranged in age from 3 to 68 years were treated with DDAVP, which was administered intranasally in a dosage ranging from 10 microgram every 12 hours to 20 microgram every eight hours. Effective control of symptoms was obtained in all cases. There were no consequential toxic effects. As previously reported, DDAVP appears to be the preferred drug for the management of central diabetes insipidus. Biochemical alteration of hormones may enhance desired therapeutic activity and eliminate toxic effects. The development of DDAVP is an example of the potential for development of useful therapeutic peptides.