Diabetes insipidus is caused by problems with a chemical called vasopressin (AVP), which is also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH). AVP is produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland until needed. The hypothalamus is an area of the brain that controls mood and appetite.

Where does the word insipidus come from?

"Insipidus" comes from Latin language insipidus (tasteless), from Latin: in- "not" + sapidus "tasty" from sapere "have a taste" — the full meaning is "lacking flavor or zest; not tasty".

What does insipidus mean in Greek?

Diabetes insipidus (DI) derives from the Greek word diabinein for “flow through” and the Latin word insapere for “non–sweet-tasting”; this separates it from another polyuric disorder, diabetes mellitus (“like honey”).