Desmopressin Response in the Young

Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), or bedwetting, is a common childhood urological disease. Factors contributing to nocturnal enuresis include nocturnal polyuria due to, at least in part, a relative deficiency of antidiuretic hormone arginine vasopressin (AVP) which has been supported by the finding that some enuretic children lack a nocturnal increase in endogenous AVP secretion. Desmopressin, a synthetic, structural analogue of AVP, selective for V2-receptors and with a longer half life than the natural hormone, has been found to be especially beneficial in PNE subjects with nocturnal polyuria and normal functional bladder capacity. A melt tablet formulation offers benefits compared to regular tablets and nasal spray. Regular tablets are more difficult to swallow for some patients and require fluid intake for swallowing. Nasal spray absorption may be altered by seasonal allergies, upper respiratory infections or improper administration.