In a nutshell
This study compared the effectiveness of mirabegron (Myrbetriq) and solifenacin (Vesicare) for overactive bladder (OAB). It concluded that both drugs are effective for OAB treatment. It also concluded that mirabegron has less side effects.
Some background
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.
Methods & findings
Databases were searched for studies. These studies looked at using mirabegron and solifenacin to treat OAB. 5 studies were included. 50mg mirabegron and 5mg solifenacin were used in each study.
The number of incontinence episodes, number of urinations per day, number of urgent urinations was the same between the different drugs. The average difference between the groups was between 12-15%. A difference between 12-15% is minimal and shows the drugs have similar effects in these aspects of OAB. There was also little difference in the average volume of urine emptied at each urination. Solifenacin did have more side effects. These side effects included dry mouth and holding urine in the bladder after urination. Mirabegron and solifenacin were equally likely to cause blurred vision and constipation. Mirabegron however, did cause a higher heart rate. The difference in average heart rate between the two drug groups was 108%. This is a substantial difference, showing mirabegron to have more of an effect on heart rate.
The bottom line
The study concluded that both drugs helped ease OAB symptoms. It also concluded that mirabegron has lower side effects.
The fine print
The authors note that other studies have found mirabegron to have significant side effects.
What’s next?
If you are interested in learning more about mirabegron and solifenacin treatment, talk to your doctor.
Published By :
Neurourology and urodynamics
Date :
Oct 23, 2018
