TeenHealthFX - Answers - DDAVP Side Effects

Pee & Urine Issues - Pain, Bed-Wetting, Amount & Frequency / Question
Published: October 20, 2000

Dear TeenHealthFX,

My son has been on DDAVP nose spray for bedwetting for approximately 4 years. Helps when on it, but every time we try to wean him off it by going to five days, four days, three days, he starts wetting again. He is now 14 years old, has ADHD and has been wetting for almost ten years. He, of course, doesn't help himself by not having drinks late at night. Is there anything else to do or try and can being on this spray for such a long time have any bad side effects or cause future problems?

Signed: DDAVP Side Effects

Dear DDAVP Side Effects,

Bedwetting can be a difficult behavior to change but there are some changes your son can make and some techniques you can use to help your son get control over his bedwetting. It is critical that you talk to your son about what help he would like in controlling this behavior as he is 14 and needs to take responsibility for some of solutions.

It is important to use an appropriate technique when using DDAVP. Give it at bedtime, and follow the instructions that your doctor has given.

The side effects of DDAVP that should raise concern and you should report to your child's doctor or nurse on the next visit are flushing (skin turns red), headache, nausea, runny nose, nose bleeds, stomach pain, abdominal cramps.

You should call the doctor immediately if your child presents any of the following: Drowsiness, insomnia, dizziness, agitation, confusion, nausea, vomiting, persistent or severe headaches, chest pain, palpitations, rapid heart rate.

Some alternative methods you could use with your son include:

Conditioning alarms, which are sensitive to wetness and wake the child up.
Avoiding caffeinated beverages in general, such as tea, coffee and colas.
Avoid drinking any beverages before going to bed.
Encourage him to empty his bladder before going to bed.

Discuss your concerns with your son's doctor. If it hasn't happened already, have your son meet with his doctor alone to discuss his concerns. Although he might not show that he cares at home, it may actually bother him a great deal. An adolescent medicine doctor (one who specializes in treating teens) may also be very helpful with this problem. It is important to make sure there are no underlying diseases, such as diabetes, urinary tract infections, or other important diseases, which might be causing this condition. Ask what treatment is best for your child and if there are any alternatives to what you have been trying.

Signed: TeenHealthFX