Treating Incontinence in Women with Medicine
DISEASES AND CONDITIONS

Treating Incontinence in Women with Medicine

March 21, 2017

Treating Incontinence in Women with Medicine

Woman talking to pharmacist.

Urinary incontinence is the leaking of urine from the bladder. In some cases, medicine can reduce or stop the leaking. It is mainly given for urge incontinence. Your healthcare provider will talk with you about your options. Make sure to ask what side effects to expect.

Below are some types of medicines that may help with urge incontinence.

Types of medicine

  • Anticholinergics. These may increase how much urine the bladder can hold. They may also help relax bladder muscles.

  • Estrogen. This may help improve muscle tone in the urethra and bladder.

  • Antibiotics. These are used to treat urinary tract infections.

  • Botulinum toxin. Injection of botulinum toxin into the bladder muscle is an option when other medicines are not effective.

Tips for taking medicine

  • Take your medicine on time and as your healthcare provider tell you to.

  • Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects, your dosage may be adjusted if necessary.

  • Be patient. It may take time to find the right dose for you.

  • Keep a list of the medicines you take. Show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist before you buy over-the-counter medicines.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

Treatment and Prevention of Urinary Incontinence in Women. UpToDate, Use of Botulinum Toxin for Non-neurogenic Lower Tract Conditions. UpToDate

Reviewed By:  

Adler, Liora C., MD,Brown, Kim, APRN