Need to know about Octostim (Desmopressin)

Desmopression (DDAVP) is a drug that stimulates the bloods ability to coagulate, by releasing coagulation factor 8 and von Willebrand factor.

The drug can be used to prevent and treat bleedings in patients with mild haemophilia A, mild Von Willebrand disease and bleeding tendency of unknown cause. 

Before you start treatment with desmopressin, the effect of the drug needs to be tested. The test takes place at the Haemophilia Center, Rigshospitalet.

Desmopressin is administered as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous).

A blood test is takes before the drug is administered to measure coagulation factor 8, von Willebrand factor and thrombocytes.

The blood test is repeated after 1 hour, and if you have mild haemophilia A or Von Willebrand disease, we need another blood test 3-4 hours after the injection.

It you need the blood test after 3-4 hours, the visit to the haemophilia center will take about 4-5 hours.

In the break between the 1-hour blood test and the 3-4 hour blood test you have the possibility to take a walk, eat lunch etc.

Desmopressin has the side effect, that it causes the kidneys to retain fluids in the body.

Therefor as an adult you may only drink 1½ liter for 24 hours after the drug is administered.   

Other side affects you may experience can be; flushing, stomach ache, nausea, dizziness.

The nurse will register any sideffects.

For a child the fluid restrictions will depend on body weight. We will inform on the individual limits and give guidance.

It is important that you’re not sick on the day of the test.

Best regards
Staff from the Haemophilia Center
Rigshospitalet