How is SIADH treated?
The underlying cause of the ADH secretion should be corrected if possible. The symptomatic relief can be obtained by the following:
- Water intake is restricted to 500-1000mls per 24 hours
The plasma and urine osmolality should be measured regularly
If the water restriction is ineffective, the antibiotic demethylchlorotetracycline (900-1200mg daily) should be administered. This antibiotic inhibits the action of vasopressin on the kidney and corrects the hyponatraemia by causing a reversible form of diabetes insipidus. The antibiotic is associated with a photosensitive rash.