OnabotulinumtoxinA can improve urinary symptoms in patients with MS

This study looked at using onabotulinumtoxin A (Botox) to improve bladder symptoms in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). It concluded that this treatment could improve bladder symptoms in patients with MS. 

Urinary function is controlled by the nervous system. Multiple sclerosis causes nerve damage which can lead to bladder symptoms. Urinary incontinence (UI – urine leakage) is common in patients who have MS.

OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) is a medication used to relax bladder muscles and help with these symptoms. Studies are being carried out to see how effective this treatment is for patients with MS and bladder symptoms. 

130 patients with MS were recruited. These patients also had bladder symptoms. Patients were randomly assigned to take either onabotulinumtoxinA or a placebo (flase treatment for comparison). Patients had two injections of either onabotulinumtoxinA or the placebo. Urinary function, quality of life, and side effects were assessed at weeks 2, 6, 12, 24 and 52.

OnabotulinumtoxinA reduced UI episodes and improved quality of life. It performed better than the placebo. Some patients taking onabotulinumtoxinA had complete improvement of UI symptoms. Some complications did occur. Urinary tract infections occurred in 26% of onabotulinumtoxinA patients and 6% of placebo patients. 15% of onabotulinumtoxinA patients and 3% of placebo patients had to have a temporary catheter fitted. MS worsened in two of the patients taking the placebo. Other less severe side effects did occur. These included: retaining urine in the bladder, bacteria being present in the urine and painful urination (25.8%). 

The study concluded that onabotulinumtoxinA treatment improved bladder symptoms and quality of life in patients with MS. 

If you are interested in learning more about onabotulinumtoxinA to treat urinary symptoms in MS, contact your doctor.