Urge incontinence is the overwhelming need to void followed by involuntary loss of urine. According to the Cleveland Clinic, 20 million people suffer with urinary incontinence. Ten percent of that group has bowel incontinence also. Incontinence is a symptom, not a disease, and urge incontinence can be treated.
Anticholinergics
Anticholinergics block the action of acetylcholine, which is the chemical signal that causes bladder spasms and resulting urinary incontinence. Medications such as oxybutinin, propantheline, tolterodine, solifinacin and fesoterodine are anticholinergic medications used to treat incontinence. Multiple research studies have shown that the use of anticholinergic medications improves the quality of life in patients with incontinence, according to an article published in Volume 9, Issue 1 of "The Obstetrician and Gynaecologist" journal. Adverse side effects of anticholinergic medications include dry mouth, cognitive decline, constipation and blurry vision.
Imipramine
Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that relaxes the muscles of the bladder but tightens the sphincter muscles around the bladder neck, according to the Mayo Clinic. Imipramine can cause drowsiness so it is usually taken just before bedtime. It may also be useful in the treatment of nocturnal incontinence as well. Tricyclic antidepressants do not mix well with other medications and must be used carefully. Other adverse side effects include; dizziness, palpitations, fainting from a drop in blood pressure when standing and irregular heartbeat. Imipramine can also cause dry mouth, constipation and blurry vision.
Botox
Injection of botulinum toxin type A is another treatment for overactive bladder causing urge incontinence. Botulinum toxin type A is injected into the bladder and blocks acetylcholine and paralyzes the bladder muscles, according to the Mayo Clinic. Botulinum lasts for up to nine months. Although studies have shown this to be an effective treatment, the Mayo Clinic states that it is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in urge incontinence. Adverse side effects include respiratory arrest and death after the use of botulinum toxin type A.
Estrogen
For postmenopausal women, estrogen may be appropriate for the treatment of urge incontinence. Estrogen is known to strengthen the muscles and supportive tissues around the bladder. Estrogen can be applied as a cream, in a ring that is inserted into the vagina or as a patch. Oral estrogen does not have the same effect as topical estrogen, according to the Mayo Clinic.
