Diabetes insipidus - central

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Endocrine glands

Central diabetes insipidus

The cause of the underlying condition should be treated.

Vasopressin (desmopressin) may be given either as a nasal spray, tablets by mouth, or injections under the skin. This controls the urine output and fluid balance and prevents dehydration.

In mild cases, drinking more water may be all that is needed. If the thirst mechanism is not working (for example, if the hypothalamus is damaged), a prescription for a certain amount of water intake may also be needed (usually 2 - 2.5 liters per day) to ensure proper hydration.

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The outcome depends on the underlying disorder. If treated, central diabetes insipidus does not cause severe problems or result in early death.

• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Confusion and changes in mental status may develop if the condition is not treated.

All patients with diabetes insipidus should wear a medic alert bracelet or necklace to alert caregivers to this condition in an emergency situation.

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate diabetes insipidus may be present.

Review Date: 11/30/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Herbert Y. Lin, MD, PHD, Nephrologist, Massachusetts General Hospital; Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).