Summary of Anticholinergic Pharmacotherapy Available for Overactive Bladder Dysfunction

Abstract

Bladder over activity affects many individuals worldwide. Anticholinergic therapy has become standard first-line pharmacotherapy for overactive bladder dysfunction after failure of conservative measures. Several different anticholinergic agents are currently utilized in clinical practice. In this article, we review the mechanism of action of these drugs. This review aims to summarize the contemporary evidence base behind the use of these agents in terms of efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction. Anticholinergic agents lead to improvements in symptoms of urgency, frequency, and urgency incontinence; however, there are associated side effects related to dry mouth, pruritus, constipation, and the central nervous system.