Solifenacin (Vesicare ®): 5-10mg PO once daily
Mechanism (How it works):
- Solifenacin is an anticholinergic drug. It acts as a competitive, selective muscarinic-receptor antagonist that binds to M3 receptors in the bladder and results in decreased urinary bladder contraction, decreased detrusor muscle pressure, and increased residual urine volume.
Indications (why you are getting this):
- Overactive bladder with urinary frequency, urgency, or urge incontinence
Contraindications (you should not take Solifenacin if you are/have):
- Allergic to Solifenacin
- Urinary or gastric retention
- Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
- Severe hepatic impairment (metabolized by hepatic CYP3A4)
More common side effects
- Dry mouth, thirst
- Dizziness
- Constipation, urinary hesitancy/retention
- Nausea
- Blurred/impaired vision, dry eyes
Serious but rare side effects:
- Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue and/or larynx)
- CNS effects (headache, confusion, hallucinations, drowsiness)
- Eye Disorders (glaucoma, blurry vision)
- Anaphylactic reaction with hypersensitivity
- Cardiac arrhythmias with QT prolongation on ECG
*This is not a complete list of all the side effects that may occur with this medication. Please refer to the package safety label provided by your pharmacist should you experience anything out of the ordinary and call your doctor.
References:
http://reference.medscape.com/drug/vesicare-solifenacin-342848#91
UroPharm 