Which medication is commonly used to treat diabetes insipidus?

Desmopressin is the most commonly used medication for treating diabetes insipidus, particularly the central form of the condition. This synthetic analog of vasopressin acts on the kidneys to enhance water reabsorption, thereby reducing excessive urination and thirst associated with the disorder.

While vasopressin can also be effective, it's important to note that desmopressin has a more favorable safety profile and fewer side effects, making it the first-line treatment choice. Medications such as dexamethasone and furosemide are not appropriate for directly managing diabetes insipidus. Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, may be used in certain conditions that affect endocrine function, but it does not address the core issue of inadequate antidiuretic hormone (ADH) production or action. Furosemide, a diuretic, would further exacerbate the situation by increasing urine output, contrary to the therapeutic goal in diabetes insipidus.