Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus starts with a problem in the kidneys. This keeps the body from responding properly to a hormone called ADH. Too much urine is made as a result. A disorder that's passed down in families or a long-term kidney problem can cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. So can medicines such as lithium or antiviral drugs.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is one type of diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus causes the body to make large amounts of pale urine. The need to urinate may happen often at night. The disease also can cause extreme thirst, even after a person has something to drink.

Treatment for nephrogenic diabetes insipidus may involve lifestyle changes. These changes could include eating a low-salt diet and drinking more water. Medicine also may be prescribed to help the body make less urine. Some medicines can cause symptoms of nephrogenic diabetes. These may need to be stopped with help from a health care provider.