Bladder leakage in females, medically known as urinary incontinence, refers to a common problem in which urine is spontaneously leaked. According to the Mayo Clinic, urine may be leaked when you cough or sneeze. In some instances, you may have the sudden urge to urinate and be unable to hold your urine. You may continuously leak large amounts of urine all at once, or gradually release small amounts. Various medications are available to treat female bladder leakage.
Anticholinergic Medications
According to the Mayo Clinic, anticholinergic medications such as oxybutynin or tolteradine block acetylcholine (a chemical messenger in your body) from sending signals to your bladder. Without acetylcholine, bladder contractions and subsequent bladder leakage episodes are lessened. Dry mouth, constipation and blurry vision are some of side effects of these medications.
Estrogen Therapy
The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) states that estrogen receptors are found throughout your lower urinary tract. Estrogen can bind to these receptors and increase the blood flow to the periurethral region (tissues surrounding the urethra) and thicken the urethra (tube through which urine passes out of the body). With a thickened urethra, less urine will leak from the bladder. The Mayo Clinic states that estrogen therapy doesn't usually cause side effects. When it does, you may develop a rash, skin irritation or itching.
Imipramine
Imipramine belongs to the drug category of tricyclic antidepressants, and can be used to treat female bladder leakage. According to the Mayo Clinic, imipramine causes your bladder muscles to relax and your bladder neck (region where your urethra and bladder converge) to contract. Imipramine's side effects include drowsiness, dizziness or fainting.
Desmopressin
Desmopressin is a medication that decreases your urine production, especially at night. The Mayo Clinic states that this medication is a synthetic version of an anti-diuretic hormone that helps decrease urine production. Water retention and hyponatremia (low blood sodium levels) are some of desmopressin's side effects.
