Diabetes insipidus - nephrogenic

Alternative Names

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to control the body's fluid levels. Patients will be given a large amount of fluids. The amount of fluids given should be about equal to the amount of urine produced.

If the condition is due to a certain medication, stopping the medicine may improve symptoms. Never stop taking any medication without first talking to your doctor.

A medicine called hydrochlorothiazide may improve symptoms. This may be used alone or in combination with other medications, including indomethacin. Although this medication is a diuretic (these medications are usually used to increase urine output), in certain cases hydrochlorothiazide can actually reduce urine output for people with nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

Outlook (Prognosis)

If a person drinks enough fluids, this condition has no significant effects on the fluid or electrolyte balance of the body.

If the person does not drink enough fluids, high urine output may cause dehydration and high levels of sodium in the blood.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus that is present at birth is a chronic condition requiring lifelong treatment.

Possible Complications

• Dilation of the ureters and bladder
• High blood sodium (hypernatremia)
• Severe dehydration
• Shock

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

References

Anatomy and Hormone Synthesis. Verbalis JG. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 243.