Overactive Bladder Medications

Your doctor can prescribe different overactive bladder medications that can be helpful for all types of incontinence. They may, however, also have serious side effects. Be sure you discuss these issues with your doctor when determining which medication is best for your situation.

For Urge Incontinence

Medications that will relax the bladder are available. This will enable the bladder to fill to a normal level before you feel the urge to urinate.

For Stress Incontinence

Medications that will strengthen the sphincter muscle are available. When the bladder is storing urine, the sphincter muscles are contracted to form a tight seal to prevent urine from being released. The sphincter does not form a tight enough seal in those individuals with stress incontinence, which means any stress placed on the bladder can lead to leakage.

For both Urge Incontinence and Stress Incontinence

A combination of medication may be prescribed to strengthen the sphincter and relax the bladder to prevent leakage.

For Overflow Incontinence

The bladder fails to contract properly allowing excess urine to be leaked without control. There are medications that can help the bladder contract properly and empty.