Urology

Question 1

Which drugs are used for overactive bladder? (3)

Answer 1

Oxybutynin

Tolterodine

Solifenacin

Question 2

Drugs for OAB - how do they work?

Answer 2

Antimuscarinic - they inhibit acetylcholine

Smooth muscle of bladder is under parasympathetic control, blocking these receptors promotes bladder relaxation.

(helps with frequency/ urgency)

Question 3

What are the important side effects of drugs used to treat OAB (antimuscarinics - inhibit parasympathetic n.s.)

Answer 3

1. Dry mouth is a common symptom
2. Other classic antimuscarinic side effects are tachycardia (due to reduction in vagal tone??), constipation, and blurred vision

Question 4

What is very important to check before prescribing antimuscarinics for OAB? (2)

Answer 4

Symptoms aren’t due to a urine infection - dip urine.

Patient isn’t in urinary retention - imp. contraindication

Question 5

Other that the drugs to treat OAB, what other drug class has antimuscarnic effects?

Answer 5

Tricyclic antidepressants