What is a common side effect of intranasal desmopressin acetate?

Intranasal desmopressin acetate is commonly used to treat conditions such as diabetes insipidus and certain bleeding disorders by mimicking the action of vasopressin, a hormone that helps the kidneys manage water retention. A notable side effect of its intranasal form is a runny nose. This occurs because the nasal mucosa can become irritated due to the administration of the medication, which in turn can lead to increased mucus production.

Given that desmopressin is delivered as a nasal spray, irritation of the nasal passages is not uncommon, resulting in symptoms such as nasal congestion or discharge. Other side effects from desmopressin can include headaches or flushing, but these are less typical when compared to the instances of runny or congested nasal passages following intranasal administration. Understanding the connection between the route of administration and the side effects can enhance patient care by helping anticipate and manage these responses effectively.