Diabetes insipidus

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Diabetes insipidus

The cause of the underlying condition should be treated when possible.

Central diabetes insipidus may be controlled with vasopressin (desmopressin, DDAVP). Vasopressin is administered as either a nasal spray or tablets.

Vasopressin is ineffective for patients with nephrogenic DI. In most cases, if nephrogenic DI is caused by medication (for example, lithium), stopping the medication leads to recovery of normal kidney function.

Hereditary nephrogenic DI is treated with fluid intake to match urine output and drugs that lower urine output. Drugs used to treat nephrogenic DI include the anti-inflammatory medication indomethacin and the diuretics hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) and amiloride.

The outcome depends on the underlying disorder. If treated, diabetes insipidus does not cause severe problems or reduce life expectancy.

Inadequate fluid consumption can result in the following complications:

• Dehydration
  • Dry skin
  • Dry mucous membranes
  • Sunken appearance to eyes
  • Sunken fontanelles (soft spot) in infants
  • Fever
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Unintentional weight loss
• Electrolyte imbalance
  • Fatigue, lethargy
  • Headache
  • Irritability
  • Muscle pains

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms that indicate diabetes insipidus.

If you have diabetes insipidus, contact your health care provider if frequent urination or extreme thirst return.

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