Health Library
Diabetes Insipidus

What is Diabetes Insipidus?

Diabetes Insipidus (DI) is a condition in which the body makes too much urine (pee). Urinating too much (polyuria) can cause severe dehydration and very high sodium levels. This condition is usually lifelong and treated with daily medication.

DI is not the same as the more common diabetes mellitus.

What Causes Diabetes Insipidus?

There are several causes of DI:

DI can happen after brain surgery, injury or infection.
It may be present at birth if the pituitary gland does not form right and cannot make a hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
DI may be inherited from parents.

What are the Symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus?

Making large amounts of urine often
Being thirsty all of the time, even overnight
Wanting to drink rather than eat
Urine may look very clear, like water
Tearless cry
Low energy

How is Diabetes Insipidus Treated?

DI is treated by giving a medicine called DDAVP (desmopressin). Knowing your child’s pattern of drinking and urinating will help your provider know when dose changes are needed. Your provider may need to check frequent lab tests to make sure the dose of DDAVP is correct and your child is hydrated.

Symptoms of not enough medicine	Symptoms of too much medicine
Increased drinking + increased urination Weight loss Urine that looks like water Increased thirst Sunken top of the head in an infant No tears when crying Tired Passed out	Decreased urination Weight gain Dark yellow urine No thirst Raised top of the head in an infant Fast heart beat Cool sweaty skin Puffy skin Upset stomach / vomiting Confusion

When to Call the Doctor

Call your provider if your child:

Cannot take the prescribed dose of DDAVP because he or she is sick with vomiting or other illness.
Has an increase in drinking / thirst.
Has not urinated within two hours of next DDAVP dose