Arginine Vasopressin Disorder

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Arginine vasopressin disorder (AVD)

is a condition that causes frequent urination. The amount of urine you make is controlled by antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH is made in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. ADH is stored and released by the pituitary gland. The 2 most common types of AVD are arginine vasopressin deficiency (AVP-D) and arginine vasopressin resistance (AVP-R).

Other common signs and symptoms:

• More thirst than usual
• Weight loss without trying
• Dry skin
• Feeling confused, weak, and dizzy
• Feeling more mentally and physically tired than usual
• Headaches and vision changes
• Children may have irritability, a loss of appetite, and slow growth

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:

• You feel weak and dizzy, or you have fainted.
• You are confused.
• You have a seizure.

Seek care immediately if:

• You have a fast or irregular heartbeat.
• You are more thirsty than usual, and your thirst wakes you from sleep.
• You have muscle cramps or weakness.
• You have nausea or are vomiting.
• You urinate large amounts of light yellow or clear urine.
• You are losing weight daily without trying.
• You are dizzy, have headaches, or are easily irritated.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• hydrochlorothiazide
• DDAVP
• desmopressin
• Microzide
• Minirin

View more treatment options

Call your doctor if:

• You have a dry mouth or cracked lips.
• You are more tired than usual.
• You have new headaches or vision changes.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment for AVD

depends on the type of AVD you have and the cause. You may need to stop taking certain medicines if that is the cause of your condition. Your healthcare provider will work with you to treat any condition that is causing AVD. Treatment may include any of the following:

• Vasopressin is a medicine that is similar to ADH. This will help decrease the amount you urinate.
• Certain diuretics, such as thiazide diuretics, can help your kidneys control the amount you urinate.
• NSAIDs can be used to decrease the amount you urinate.

Manage your symptoms:

• Weigh yourself each day. Weigh yourself at the same time each day, on the same scale. Rapid weight loss can be a sign of fluid loss in your body.
• Drink liquids as directed. Keep track of how much liquids you drink and how often you urinate. This helps you stay hydrated and prevents too much water loss. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about how much liquid to have each day and which liquids are best for you.
• Lower your sodium (salt) intake as directed. Too much sodium can affect your fluid balance. Reduced sodium will prevent your body from holding onto excess water. Check labels to find low-sodium or no-salt-added foods. Ask your provider how much sodium is safe for you to have in a day.
• Choose a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and fish. Your provider or dietitian may recommend that you limit protein foods such as milk, fish, and meat. Protein makes your kidneys work harder.
• Limit or do not drink alcohol or caffeine. Alcohol and caffeine make you urinate more and increase your risk for dehydration.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

You may need to return for more blood and urine tests to check if treatment is working. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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