Comparing antimuscarinic treatment duration for women with overactive bladder syndrome

This study investigated the risk of retreatment after 3 or 6 months of antimuscarinic therapy for overactive bladder (OAB). This study found that prolonged antimuscarinic treatment does not increase the risk of retreatment for OAB.

Overactive bladder (OAB) occurs when the bladder muscle is too active. Instead of staying at rest as urine fills the bladder, the bladder contracts. This causes a person to feel a sudden and sometimes overwhelming urge to urinate even when the bladder is not full. Treatments for OAB can include antimuscarinics such as solifenacin (Vesicare). These medications can be taken for 3 or 6 months. 

It is unclear which treatment course is better. 

This study included 182 female patients. 91 patients had 3 months of treatment (Group 1). 91 patients had 6 months of treatment (Group 2). Each patient had solifenacin 5mg per day. 

Re-treatment rates were the same in each group. Those who had higher amounts of incontinence episodes were more likely to need re-treatment. Those who have had given birth more time and had a poor response to antimuscarinic treatment were more likely to ask for retreatment of OAB. 

This study concluded that prolonged antimuscarinic treatment does not increase the risk of retreatment need for OAB in women.

Not all participants completed the follow-up period. This might limit the findings of the study.