Medical Treatment of Overactive Bladder

Abstract

Overactive bladder is a disruptive urinary condition composed of urgency, frequency, and nocturia, which affects a large proportion of men and women. Symptoms are often associated with a decreased quality of life. After optimizing behavioral strategies, pharmacologic intervention is the next consideration for treatment. Therapeutic agents consist primarily of antimuscarinic and β-agonist medications, as well as off-label use of antidepressants in some cases. These medications, although effective, can be associated with considerable adverse side effects. Combination therapies along with novel therapeutics and drug targets are under investigation.

Keywords: Antimuscarinic; Beta-agonist; Overactive bladder; Pharmacotherapy; Urge urinary incontinence.