Overactive Bladder: Symptoms, Treatment, and Medication Concerns

Q: Overactive Bladder: Symptoms, Treatment, and Medication Concerns

Hello： If the symptoms have improved and the side effects are manageable, it is recommended to continue the medication. <br>However, if the side effects significantly impact daily life, it should be discontinued. <br>Such medications may cause some side effects in certain individ

Feeling the urge to urinate?

Hello, a few days ago I visited a urologist due to issues with frequent urination and a sense of urgency (I have no previous urinary conditions).
I usually drink about 2000cc of water daily.
The doctor asked me some questions, and since I only have issues with frequent urination and urgency without pain, he mentioned that it might be overactive bladder and prescribed me Urorec (Mirabegron) 15mg, instructing me to take one tablet after breakfast and dinner for seven days.
I have been taking it for four days now.
Currently, I only feel the urge to urinate when I sense my penis feels like it has urine (feeling like I can't hold it), and I do not have any urgency from the bladder.
When I go to the restroom, I have to stand for 2-3 seconds before I can urinate smoothly.
After urinating, I experience a few drops leaking onto my underwear (I wait for it to finish dripping).
I do not have any nocturia issues while sleeping, but as soon as I use the restroom, my penis feels like it has urine again.
I looked up the side effects of the medication, and I currently feel fatigued, sometimes experience brief visual blurriness, and have constipation, which is uncomfortable for me.
Since I have been busy lately, I plan to see the doctor again next week.
Therefore, I would like to ask if stopping Urorec would cause any issues, or should I continue to finish the seven-day course?

Wei A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/24

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If the symptoms have improved and the side effects are manageable, it is recommended to continue the medication.
However, if the side effects significantly impact daily life, it should be discontinued.
Such medications may cause some side effects in certain individuals, but generally, they are tolerable.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/03/24

More Info

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by a frequent and urgent need to urinate, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life. It is important to understand the symptoms, treatment options, and potential medication concerns associated with this condition.

In your case, it seems that you have been prescribed a medication called "Urobutynin" (often referred to as "優合-膜衣錠" in Chinese) to help manage your symptoms of overactive bladder. This medication is an anticholinergic agent that works by relaxing the bladder muscles, thereby reducing the frequency and urgency of urination. While it can be effective, it is not uncommon for patients to experience side effects, which you have noted, such as fatigue, visual disturbances, and constipation.

Given that you have been taking the medication for four days and are experiencing these side effects, it is understandable to be concerned about whether to continue the medication or stop it altogether. Here are some considerations:
1. Side Effects Management: The side effects you are experiencing, such as fatigue and visual disturbances, can be bothersome. It is important to weigh the benefits of the medication against these side effects. If the side effects are significantly impacting your daily life, it may be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication.

2. Completing the Course: Generally, it is advisable to complete the prescribed course of medication unless the side effects are intolerable. Medications for overactive bladder often take some time to show their full effect, and stopping prematurely may prevent you from experiencing the potential benefits.

3. Consulting Your Doctor: Since you mentioned that you will be seeing your doctor next week, it would be beneficial to discuss your concerns during that visit. Your doctor can provide guidance on whether to continue the medication or consider alternatives. They may also suggest lifestyle modifications or additional therapies that could help alleviate your symptoms without relying solely on medication.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency of urination, any urgency you feel, and how you feel overall while on the medication. This information will be valuable for your doctor to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make informed decisions moving forward.

5. Potential Alternatives: If Urobutynin does not work for you or if the side effects are too bothersome, there are other medications available for overactive bladder, such as tolterodine, solifenacin, or mirabegron. Each of these medications has a different side effect profile, and your doctor can help determine which might be the best fit for you.

In conclusion, while it is important to address the side effects you are experiencing, it may be beneficial to complete the seven-day course of Urobutynin and discuss your experience with your doctor during your next appointment. They can help you navigate your treatment options and make adjustments as necessary to ensure you find a balance between managing your overactive bladder symptoms and minimizing side effects. Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is key to finding the most effective and tolerable treatment plan for your condition.

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