Is dDAVP better given in the morning or evening?
In most patients with uncomplicated CDI, dDAVP should be given as often and in as large a dose as necessary to completely normalize the rate of urine output. This is usually achieved most conveniently by giving at least two doses, one in the morning and one at bedtime. If necessary, a third dose can be given in the late afternoon. It is not necessary to allow breakthrough from the antidiuresis except in very young infants whose diet is still largely liquid or in the uncommon patient who has a defect in the thirst mechanism in addition to CDI. Patients with dipsogenic DI should be given dDAVP only in small doses at bedtime to reduce the need to get up and urinate at night. If they take dDAVP in large doses or during the day, they will develop water intoxication.
