Desmopressin Nasal, Oral, Injection and Zanamivir

• Generic Name: desmopressin
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: DDAVP, Nocdurna, DDAVP nasal, DDAVP Rhinal Tube, Noctiva, Stimate

Desmopressin nasal spray is used to treat central cranial diabetes insipidus. This is a condition that causes the body to lose too much fluid and become dehydrated. It is also used to control frequent urination and increased thirst caused by certain types of brain injury or brain surgery. The Stimate® nasal spray is used to treat bleeding in patients with hemophilia A or von Willebrand disease (Type I).

Noctiva™ nasal spray is used to treat nocturnal polyuria in adults who awaken two or more times to urinate at night. Nocturnal polyuria is a condition where your body makes too much urine at night. Your doctor will need to measure your urine and the times that you urinate for 24 hours to determine if you have nocturnal polyuria.

Desmopressin is similar to a hormone that is produced in the body. It acts on the kidneys to reduce the flow of urine. For bleeding, desmopressin increases the blood levels of factor VIII and von Willebrand factor. This results in less bleeding for patients who have low levels of these agents.

Desmopressin is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: zanamivir
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Relenza

Zanamivir is an antiviral medicine that blocks the actions of viruses in your body.

Zanamivir is used to treat flu symptoms caused by influenza virus in people who have had symptoms for less than 2 days. Zanamivir may also be given to prevent influenza in people who may be exposed but do not yet have symptoms. Zanamivir will not treat the common cold.

Zanamivir should not be used in place of getting a yearly flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control recommends an annual flu shot to help protect you each year from new strains of influenza virus.

Zanamivir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.