Managing Frequent Urination: Safe Medications and Digestive Concerns

Medications for treating frequent urination?

I have been taking a medication called DETRUSITOL for many years due to my condition of frequent urination.
However, in the past six months, I have also been experiencing severe indigestion.
I would like to know if taking this medication along with a treatment for indigestion can truly eliminate the side effect of slowing down gastrointestinal motility caused by DETRUSITOL.
Additionally, I would like to know what medications can help with frequent urination without causing gastrointestinal issues.
Thank you.

Xiao Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/12

Dr. Liao Lingmei reply Pharmacology

Dear Xiao Jun,
The primary medications for treating urgency, frequency, and urinary incontinence are antimuscarinic drugs.
This is because the bladder contains numerous muscarinic receptors, which are present in the smooth muscle of the bladder, the gastrointestinal tract, the central nervous system, and the heart.
As a result, the use of antimuscarinic medications can lead to side effects, including the common occurrence of dry mouth due to effects on the salivary glands, blurred vision and dry eyes from iris involvement, constipation due to decreased gastrointestinal motility, and less commonly, tachycardia or gastrointestinal discomfort.
There are also reports of headaches and drowsiness related to central nervous system effects.

Theoretically, it would be more ideal to have receptor-selective medications that directly stimulate detrusor muscle contraction for treatment.
Currently, receptor-selective antimuscarinic medications are not yet available in the domestic market.
The newer drug Tolterodine (also known as DETRUSITOL) has organ selectivity and shows significantly lower side effects of dry mouth compared to other medications.
However, side effects such as constipation and dyspepsia do not show significant differences compared to other drugs.

You may wish to consult your physician to select a medication that is more suitable for your individual condition, aiming to achieve treatment goals with a more comprehensive consideration.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2006/09/12

More Info

Managing frequent urination can be a complex issue, especially when considering the potential side effects of medications and their interactions with digestive health. Detrol (tolterodine) is a common medication prescribed for overactive bladder and frequent urination. While it can be effective in reducing urinary frequency, it is known to have anticholinergic effects, which can slow down gastrointestinal motility and lead to digestive issues such as constipation or dyspepsia.

Interaction Between Detrol and Digestive Medications
If you are experiencing severe digestive issues alongside your use of Detrol, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before combining it with medications intended to treat digestive problems. Some medications for digestive issues, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers, may not directly counteract the gastrointestinal side effects of Detrol. In fact, certain medications can exacerbate the slowing of gut motility, leading to further digestive discomfort.

Alternatives for Managing Frequent Urination
If you are looking for alternatives to Detrol that may have fewer gastrointestinal side effects, consider the following options:
1. Mirabegron (Myrbetriq): This medication is a beta-3 adrenergic agonist that works differently than anticholinergic medications. It relaxes the bladder muscle and increases bladder capacity without the same degree of gastrointestinal side effects. It may be a suitable alternative if you are concerned about the digestive issues associated with Detrol.

2. Oxybutynin: While this medication is also an anticholinergic, it comes in various formulations, including transdermal patches and topical gels, which may have a lower incidence of gastrointestinal side effects compared to oral formulations.

3. Solifenacin (Vesicare): Similar to Detrol, solifenacin is an anticholinergic medication, but some patients report fewer side effects. It is worth discussing with your doctor if this could be a better fit for you.

4. Botox Injections: For severe cases of overactive bladder, Botox injections into the bladder muscle can provide relief without the systemic side effects associated with oral medications.

5. Behavioral Therapies: Techniques such as bladder training and pelvic floor exercises can also help manage symptoms without the need for medication.

Conclusion
In summary, while combining Detrol with digestive medications might seem like a solution to mitigate its side effects, it is essential to approach this with caution and under medical supervision. Discussing your symptoms and concerns with your healthcare provider will help tailor a treatment plan that addresses both your urinary and digestive health. They can help you explore alternative medications that may be effective for managing frequent urination while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective management of your conditions.

Similar Q&A

Managing Urological Concerns: Insights and Recommendations

(1) The previous two medical consultation records are as follows: A. On January 15, 2014, Gastroenterology: (B) Examination results: Urinalysis normal, abdominal pain, cystitis, other urinary abnormalities, dyspepsia, and other specific gastric functional disorders. (B) Medicatio...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Rick: Hello, I suggest applying a warm compress to the lower abdomen and perineal area. Additionally, when you have time, try to engage in some light exercise, such as push-ups or stretching, which can help improve autonomic nervous system dysregulation and insomnia. If you have ...

Managing Constipation and Frequent Urination: A Comprehensive Approach

This issue is a bit complex because I initially consulted a gastroenterologist, so I categorized it under gastroenterology. Background: Last Tuesday, I visited a gastroenterologist due to constipation issues. An abdominal X-ray showed no abnormalities, and the doctor believed tha...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
You can first discuss medication adjustments with the urologist to avoid potential side effects.

Understanding Frequent Urination: Causes, Remedies, and When to See a Doctor

Hello Dr. Lin, since yesterday I have been going to the bathroom more than 8 times, including twice at night. I checked and it might be related to emotional stress. I have been taking medication to alleviate anxiety and depression since March. Could this be related to the medicat...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Medications can have an impact, but not completely. It is important to primarily drink plain water and to drink it evenly throughout the day. If your urine is too dark, you need to increase your fluid intake. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Urinary Issues: Frequent Urination and Urgency Explained

Since elementary school through high school and into college, I have been afraid to urinate in public. I have had a pathological urge to hold my urine since childhood, only feeling comfortable to urinate when I am sure no one is in the restroom. As a result, I have experienced se...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Regarding psychiatric medications, please consult a psychiatrist. They do not affect the fields of metabolism or urology, and long-term follow-up is necessary. Wishing you good health.