NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

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What is the primary risk associated with Desmopressin use for nocturia?

  1. Severe, life-threatening hyponatremia

  2. Increased blood pressure

  3. Urinary retention

  4. Kidney stones

The correct answer is: Severe, life-threatening hyponatremia

Desmopressin is a synthetic form of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) which is used to treat conditions like nocturia by reducing the amount of urine produced by the kidneys. One of the major risks associated with Desmopressin is the potential for causing severe, life-threatening hyponatremia. This risk occurs because Desmopressin can lead to water retention without sodium retention, causing a dilution of sodium levels in the blood. This dilution can result in dangerously low sodium levels, which can lead to symptoms like confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, even death. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of hyponatremia is crucial when using Desmopressin to prevent this serious complication. The other options are not directly associated with Desmopressin use for nocturia. Increased blood pressure is not a common risk of Desmopressin, urinary retention is not a typical side effect as Desmopressin is used to reduce urine production, and kidney stones are not a primary risk factor associated with Desmopressin.