Bed wetting nasal spray side effects could cause fatal seizures for children

The FDA warned today that children should not use certain bed wetting nasal sprays due to a risk that side effects of the drug could cause seizures or death.  Desmopressin, which is often prescribed to control urination in children during the night, is no longer approved as a nasal spray to treat bed wetting , and caution is being urged for use of any other forms of the drug.

Desmopressin, which is available as a nasal spray, tablet or injection, is marketed under several different brand names, including:

• DDAVP Nasal Spray
• DDAVP Rhinal Tube
• DDAVP
• DDVP
• Minirin
• Stimate Nasal Spray

Side effects of desmopressin could cause an abnormally low concentration of sodium in the blood, which may lead to a seizure or death.  The FDA has received at least 61 reports of serious seizures linked to the drugs and at least 2 deaths.  Thirty six of the seizures were from use of the nasal sprays, with 25 occurring in children under the age of 18.

>>LINK: FDA Alert

The medication works by limiting the amount of urine and controlling excessive thirst.  While it is commonly used to treat bed wetting, it is also prescribed to prevent urination and dehydration associated with surgery, an injury, diabetes or other medical conditions.

Desmopressin intranasal formulations, which are designed for use as a nasal spray, are no longer approved as a treatment for bed wetting in children.  However, other forms of desmopressin will still be available.

While children using the bed wetting nasal spray are at a particular risk for seizures or death, the side effects could occur with any form of the drug.  The FDA has requested that the makers update the prescribing information to indicate this risk and recommended doctors exercise caution when using the drugs for patients with a risk for water intoxication.

The FDA warns that the drug should be stopped immediately during illnesses which cause fever or vomiting, as that could increase the chance of a water and sodium imbalance.  The risk of seizure could also be increased if the drug is being used together with an antidepressant, painkiller or other medication to treat seizures.  In addition, exposure to hot weather or a lot of activity which results in thirst could increase the risk of problems. 

BED WETTING NASAL SPRAY SEIZURES

If your child or a family member suffered a seizure or other serious injury which you believe may be related to the use of DDAVP Nasal Spray or one of the other desmopressin drugs, request a free legal consultation.