Overactive bladder, or OAB, is another term to describe urinary frequency. MayoClinic.com describes this as the frequent urge to urinate due to abnormal bladder contractions. Although 2010 information from urologychannel.com indicates that over 33 million individuals in the United States live with OAB and other urinary incontinence problems, these conditions are treatable with prescription medications.
Oxybutynin
Oxybutynin, the generic form of the brand drug Ditropan, is a drug that treats symptoms of OAB like frequent urinary urges, by lessening the muscle spasms of the bladder and urinary tract, states Drugs.com. It comes in a pill or liquid form and can be taken with or without food. Individuals who have a gastrointestinal blockage, who are unable to urinate, and those with untreated or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma should not take this drug. The prescribing physician should be notified of any medical condition or disease the patient has, and any other medications or supplements the patient takes, to avoid adverse interactions. Common side effects of Ditropan dry mouth, blurred vision, diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, sleep problems and runny nose. More serious side effects can include hot and dry skin, extreme thirst, severe constipation or abdominal pain and pain during urination; if these occur, the prescribing physician needs to be notified.
Tolterodine
Tolterodine, the generic form of the brand drug Detrol LA, is another drug used for urinary frequency. These capsules are taken once daily and help to relax the bladder, enabling users to control their urination better, according to Rxlist.com. Before prescribing this medication, Patients should inform their physicians of any other medical conditions they may have including kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, severe constipation or enlarged prostate. Tolterodine may cause heart rhythm abnormalities, and certain medical conditions or prescription drugs can interact with tolterodine and prolong these abnormalities. Side effects of this medication can include dry mouth, dry eyes, stomach upset, constipation or diarrhea, joint pain and headache.
Solifenacin
Solifenacin, also known as the brand name drug VESIcare, reduces urinary tract and bladder spasms. Prior to prescribing solifenacin, a physician should be aware of any patient history of glaucoma, inability to urinate, delayed gastric emptying or kidney or liver disease, says drugs.com. Patients with some of these conditions may not be able to use this drug. To avoid medication interactions, all medications and supplements should be discussed with the prescribing physician. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should not take this drug, as it may harm an unborn baby, according to Drugs.com. This medication decreases perspiration, which can increase an individual's risk for heat stroke; patients taking this drug should avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated with exercise or very hot weather. Side effects of solifenacin include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, mild nausea, fatigue, sore throat and flu-like symptoms.
