Desmopressin (DDAVP) is a well tolerated and convenient haemostatic agent that can be used in a number of clinical conditions with bleeding diathesis. It has several effects on the haemostatic system, causing endogenous release of coagulation factor VIII, von Willebrand factor and tissue-type plasminogen activator, among others. In this review we present a growing body of evidence showing that DDAVP treatment may impair spread of cancer cells and contribute to encapsulation of tumour tissue. Our data in preclinical animal models suggest a potential application of DDAVP in the perioperative management of aggressive solid tumours. Novel vasopressin analogues with improved antitumor effects are currently in development.