Long-term treatment of overactive bladder with a combination of mirabegron and solifenacin

This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of a combination of mirabegron (Myrbetriq) and solifenacin (Vesicare) in treating overactive bladder (OAB). It concluded that the drugs are successful in treating OAB. 

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a sudden, frequent urge to urinate. It may result in urge incontinence (inability to hold on to urine). OAB urination is emptying of the bladder usually eight or more times a day and two or more times at night. OAB can have a negative impact on quality of life. Medications can be taken to calm the muscles and nerves which cause OAB. These medications however, can carry side effects. Mirabegron and solifenacin are OAB medications. These relax the muscles of the bladder. It is important to research the safety and effectiveness of these medications.

1794 patients were included in this study. Patients had symptoms of urinating often and urge incontinence. Patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups. Group 1 took 5mg solifenacin and 50mg mirabegron daily. Group 2 took 5mg solifenacin daily. Group 3 took 50mg mirabegron daily. Patients took the medication for 12 months. Patients returned for a follow-up visit 2 weeks after finishing the medication. Patients were assessed for drug side effects. Patients kept a urination diary. Patients were assessed for a change in the number of incontinence episodes and urinations per day. Patients were assessed for this change at months 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12. 

47.2% of patients experienced at least 1 side effect. Most of these patients were taking both solifenacin and mirebegron. Side effects included dry mouth, constipation, urinary tract infection and nasopharyngitis (an inflamed pharynx and nasal passage). All patient improved in the number of incontinence episodes and urinations per day. The most improvement was observed in the group taking both solifenacin and mirabegron. 

This study concluded that using mirabegron and solifenacin together to treat OAB is safe and effective. 

The authors note the number of patients in some of the age groups assessed was small. This may affect the study's results. 

If you would like to know more about solifenacin and mirabegron in the treatment of OAB, talk to your doctor.