Different medical conditions, aging, and lifestyle habits can all contribute to these symptoms.
When nondrug strategies fail to help, medications are available to address symptoms and improve quality of life.
Anticholinergic medicationsare the mainstay ofurinary incontinencemanagement.
Getty Image / bymuratdeniz
In some cases, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help.
Getty Image / bymuratdeniz
Anticholinergics
Anticholinergic medications work by blocking the neurotransmitteracetylcholinefrom binding to its receptors.
You may be a candidate for Botox if traditional oral medications have not helped your symptoms.
The most common side effects of Botox injection include repeated UTIs while Botox remains in the bladder.
When this happens, symptoms associated with overactive bladder are reduced.
They have similar tolerability, although mirabegron has a higher risk of nasopharyngitis and cardiovascular-related side effects.
This is known as enuresis, or an involuntary release of urine during sleep.
Tofranil belongs to a class of medications calledtricyclic antidepressants.
Studies have suggested it may work better when combined with oxybutynin.
Studies show that duloxetine helps with urinarystress incontinencedue to its dual action on both serotonin and norepinephrine.
You should also contact your prescriber, as abruptly stopping a medication like duloxetinecan be dangerous.
Oxybutynin for men must be obtained through a prescription.
OTC products containing phenazopyridine, an analgesic for urinary problems, are also available.
Though they can relieve symptoms, these products do not treat UTIs.
If you are experiencing UTI symptoms, visit a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and prescription treatment.
Other nondrug therapies may be effective for types of incontinence not linked to an infection or underlying medical condition.
Summary
Several medications can help with symptoms associated with bladder control problems (urinary incontinence).
These medications can help improve quality of life by reducing urinary frequency and urgency.
Medications may be available by prescription or over the counter.
The author would like to recognize and thank Shreya Kumar for contributing to this article.
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