Overactive bladder and incontinence part 8

Medications

Unlike may other bladder disorders, there are some decent medications that can treat overflow incontinence. These medications all work in the same manner. They relax the bladder muscles and reduce urge incontinence. The available drugs include

- tolterodine (Detrol)
- oxybutynin (Ditropan)
- oxybutynin skin patch (Oxytrol)
- trospium (Sanctura)
- solifenacin (Vesicare)
- darifenacin (Enablex).

For the best effects, it is highly recommended that these medications be combined with above mentioned lifestyle changes. There is a lot of clinical evidence showing that these drugs do work for hyperactive bladder but the problem is never cured. The treatment has to be continued for many months. Relapse is very common when drug treatment is stopped.

The major problem with the above drugs is side effects. Most individuals develop some type of side effect over time. The longer the treatment continues, the more prominent side effects become. The typical side effects of anti cholinergic drugs include

- Dry eye sensation
- Dry mouth
- Excessive thirst
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Constipation

To limit or eliminate these side effects, there are now some extended release preparations that can be applied as a skin patch. If dry mouth or dry eye sensation persists, one should use sugar free candy, apply eye drops or use products like Biotene that can help moisten the mouth for long periods

Botox

There is some anecdotal evidence that Botox can help relieve overflow incontinence. Botox can paralyze bladder muscles and reduce the urge to pee. Research is still ongoing and Botox has not yet been approved for use in this disorder. Some reports indicate that Botox when injected into bladder muscles can provide relief for as long as 4-6 months. However, it has also been observed that Botox injections in older men can create another problem- retention of urine. One develops a feeling of a full bladder but is unable to void. Often the only way to resolve this problem is to use a catheter to empty the bladder.