Medicines for Overactive Bladder & Incontinence

About Overactive Bladder & Incontinence

Overactive bladder causes a sudden, strong urge to pass urine, needing to go often and sometimes leaking before reaching the toilet (urge incontinence). It is common in women and older adults.

Bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, cutting down tea, coffee and fizzy drinks, and treating constipation all help.

Medicines used for Overactive Bladder & Incontinence

Medicines that calm the bladder muscle include solifenacin, tolterodine and oxybutynin, while mirabegron works in a different way with fewer dry-mouth side effects. Flavoxate is used for bladder spasm and discomfort.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor to rule out a urine infection, diabetes or prostate problems. Seek help quickly for blood in the urine, burning with fever, or if you cannot empty your bladder.

This page is for general information only. Many of these medicines need a prescription; please use them only on the advice of a doctor or pharmacist, who can choose the right medicine and dose for you.