In a nutshell
This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of combination Mirabegron (Myrbetriq) and Solifenacin (Vesicare) treatment in Overactive Bladder (OAB) patients. This study concluded that after 1 year, the combination treatment was safe and more effective than each drug given alone.
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 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.
Both solifenacin and mirabegron are already available as individual OAB therapies. Taking the two drugs together for OAB has so far only been tested in a 12-week study.
Methods & findings
This study included 1829 men and women with OAB. Patients were divided into treatment groups and received medications for 12 months. Patients either received 5mg solifenacin and 50mg mirabegron, or 5mg solifenacin only, or 50mg mirabegron only. Patients kept a bladder diary which allowed for monitoring of incontinence episodes. Questionnaires for OAB and scores for quality of life were also assessed. Patients were monitored for side effects also. Clinic visits occurred at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of treatment.
The reduction of incontinence episodes was greatest in the combination group. It was 33% greater than the mirabegron group and 23% greater than the solifenacin group. Combination therapy also had better outcomes in the OAB questionnaire and scores for quality of life. Side effects occurred in 49% of the combination treated patients, 44% of solifenacin treated patients and 41% of mirabegron treated patients. Only one serious side effect reported was connected to mirabegron (atrial fibrillation – an abnormal heartbeat). Dry mouth and constipation were the most common side effects.
The bottom line
This study concluded that the solifenacin and mirabegron combination therapy was safe and effective in the treatment of overactive bladder.
The fine print
More patients were assigned to the combination group than to either the solifenacin or mirabegron groups. This means that the data may be affected and need more investigation.
What’s next?
If you are interested in learning more about possible OAB treatment with sulifenacin and mirabegron, contact your doctor.
Published By :
European Urology
Date :
Jun 01, 2018
