Antidepressant Use and Incident Urinary Incontinence: A Literature Review

Abstract

Objective: To review available data examining antidepressant use and incident urinary incontinence (UI).

Data sources: PubMed was used to conduct the literature search for this review. In the primary search, the term "antidepressive agents" was searched as a medical subject heading, a pharmacological action, and a keyword phrase. This choice was made so that any relevant articles would include complete results for antidepressive agents. "Antidepressive agents" was combined with the key phrase "drug-induced urinary incontinence" to complete this primary search.

Study selection: Relevant articles published in English and examining human subjects were included.

Data extraction: The study authors determined appropriateness of articles for inclusion, focusing on those examining antidepressant-associated UI.

Data synthesis: This literature review identified three cohort studies and 11 case reports examining various associations between antidepressant use and incident UI.

Conclusion: All 11 case reports and 1 cohort study reviewed suggest an association between antidepressant use and incident UI. It remains unclear which drugs are most problematic and which patients are at greatest risk, and more data are needed to confirm an association, especially in older adults. Comprehensive medication reviews should be employed by pharmacists to identify potential medication-related causes of UI.