What is the primary treatment for central diabetes insipidus?

Desmopressin is the primary treatment for central diabetes insipidus because it is a synthetic analog of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone, ADH). In central diabetes insipidus, there is insufficient production of ADH due to damage or dysfunction of the posterior pituitary, which leads to excessive urination and thirst. Desmopressin helps to alleviate the symptoms by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys, thus reducing urine output and improving hydration status.

The use of desmopressin effectively mimics the action of natural ADH, making it the first-line therapy for this condition. It is especially beneficial because it acts quickly and has a longer duration of action compared to natural vasopressin, allowing for better management of the disorder.

In contrast, thiazide diuretics, low sodium diet, and insulin therapy do not directly address the underlying hormonal deficit present in central diabetes insipidus. Thiazide diuretics can sometimes be used off-label to decrease urine output in nephrogenic diabetes insipidus but are not suitable for central diabetes insipidus. A low sodium diet is not a treatment for this condition, and insulin therapy is not relevant in the context of diabetes ins