In a nutshell
This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of vibegron in the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB). Researchers suggested that this drug is a good and safe option for the treatment of OAB.
Some background
Around 17% of adults experience OAB in Europe and the USA. OAB consists of frequent and sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control. The symptoms include urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence (leakage).
The treatment options for OAB are small surgical procedures, electrical stimulation, and pharmacological drugs. The common anti-OAB drugs used as first-line treatment are usually associated with high rates of side effects. These effects reduce patient satisfaction and lead to poor adherence to the treatment. Prior studies showed that vibegron has a high activity as a novel agent. However, the effectiveness and safety of vibegron compared to other drugs in the treatment of OAB are not clear.
Methods & findings
This study reviewed 6 other studies about the use of vibegron in OAB. It included information about 4314 patients with OAB. Vibegron 50mg or 100 mg was compared to a placebo or other OAB drugs such as antimuscarinics. The antimuscarinics included were tolterodine extended-release (Detrol) and imidafenacin.
Both vibegron 50 and 100 mg significantly improved urinary symptoms when compared to placebo. No significant differences were seen in the side effects between both vibegron dosages and placebo. The effectiveness of both doses of vibegron was similar to antimuscarinic drugs except for urine volume. Urine volume was significantly higher with both doses of vibegron compared to antimuscarinics.
Vibegron was associated with decreased risk of dry mouth and constipation. However, the risk of common cold was higher with vibegron when compared to antimuscarinic agents.
The bottom line
This study concluded that vibegron is a good and safe option for the treatment of patients with OAB.
The fine print
This study was based on information from medical records. Data may have been missing. Further studies are needed.
Published By :
International urology and nephrology
Date :
Jun 09, 2020
