The prevalence and causes of nocturia

The economic impact of nocturia

Sleep disturbances associated with nocturia cause direct, indirect, and intangible costs. Direct costs are primarily associated with injuries from falling. Indirect costs are associated with loss of work productivity. Intangible costs include emotional distress, behavioral modifications, feelings of loss of control, poor mood, and cancellation of planned activities. A study that compared the number of falls for patients with varying numbers of voids per night demonstrated that the incremental risk (population attributable risk [PAR]) of falling as a result of nocturia (≥ 2 voids compared with ≤ 1 void) was 16.2%. Using the 16.2% PAR, the annual direct cost of nocturia in the USA was estimated at $1.5 billion. An analysis in the EU-15 countries estimated the total annual cost of hospitalizations for hip fracture due to severe nocturia to be approximately € 1 billion. Studies have shown that periods of sick leave are significantly greater in both men and women who have more nocturnal voids, with an estimated annual indirect cost of nocturia of $61 billion in the USA. A similar European analysis showed an estimated annual cost of lost work productivity due to nocturia of € 29 billion in the EU-15. The intangible personal costs of nocturia are related to diminished quality of life and overall health status. High-quality articles on the cost of illness associated with nocturia, as well as cost-benefit analyses of nocturia treatment, are generally lacking.

Terminology, epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of nocturia

Nocturia, awaking from sleep to void, has a negative impact on health and well-being. Nocturia affects men and women and is more prevalent among the elderly. More than two nocturnal voids is considered to be a clinically meaningful threshold associated with significant negative outcomes for health and well-being, and the timing of awakening has a significant bearing on the negative consequences of nocturia. Several serious underlying pathophysiologic conditions may be associated with nocturia. A thorough history and assessment of number and times of voids, void volume, and fluid intake is essential for determining the etiology of a patient's nocturia. With data obtained from the frequency-volume chart (FVC), which is used to collect quantitative voiding data, a patient's nocturia may be classified as global polyuria, nocturnal polyuria, reduced bladder capacity, or a combination of these categories. Global polyuria is defined as 24-hr urinary output that exceeds 40 ml/kg body weight and results in increased 24-hr urinary frequency. Nocturnal polyuria is defined as more than 20% of daily urine output at night in young patients and more than 33% in elderly patients. Reduced bladder capacity may be a result of idiopathic or neurogenic detrusor overactivity, bladder outlet obstruction, or reduced nocturnal bladder capacity. The pathophysiology underlying the findings of the FVC falls into five main categories: global polyuria, nocturnal polyuria, reduced bladder capacity, sleep disorders, and circadian clock disorders. This review discusses the epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of nocturia.

Determinants of nocturia severity in men, derived from frequency-volume charts

OBJECTIVE

Nocturia may be characterized by indices derived from the frequency-volume chart (FVC). The objective of this study was to determine how these parameters relate to the severity of nocturia in men with and without lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of FVCs was performed in two cohorts of men: those presenting with LUTS in a New York ambulatory urology clinic and those from the longitudinal population-based Krimpen study. Nocturnal urine volume (NUV), nocturia index (Ni), nocturnal polyuria index (NPi), nocturnal maximal voided volume (nMVV) and sleep duration were derived from FVCs. Comparisons were made using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient between actual number of nightly voids (ANV) and the other diary parameters.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight consecutive men who presented with LUTS completed a 24 h FVC [median age 70 years, interquartile range (IQR) 64.5-74.5, median ANV 2, IQR 1.5-4]. Nocturnal voiding frequency and volume were analyzed in 1082 community-dwelling men (median age 61 years, IQR 56.1-66.4, range 49.4-78.2; median ANV 1.5, IQR 1.0-2.0, range 0-4.5). Both cohorts demonstrated strong correlations between nocturia severity (represented as ANV) and Ni (0.797, 0.658 for cohorts 1 and 2, respectively). There were moderate correlations between nocturia severity and NPi (0.545, 0.394), NUV (0.463, 0.432) and sleep duration (0.306, 0.272). The nMVV correlated poorly with nocturia severity (0.159, 0.146).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of nocturia should aim to match nocturnal urine production with bladder capacity. Given the lack of known effective pharmacotherapy for low bladder volume, the first attempt nocturia treatment could focus on volume reduction.

The Nocturia Impact Diary: a self-reported impact measure to complement the voiding diary

BACKGROUND

Nocturia is a chronic, fluctuating disease that disrupts sleep and has a wide-ranging impact on quality of life. Valid tools to measure the patient-reported impact of nocturia are essential for evaluating the value of treatment, but the available tools are suboptimal.

OBJECTIVES

This study reports the development and validation of the Nocturia Impact Diary-an augmented form of the Nocturia Quality of Life questionnaire designed to be completed in conjunction with the widely used 3-day voiding diary.

METHODS

The process comprised three steps: Step 1: Development of a concept pool using the Nocturia Quality of Life questionnaire and data from relevant studies; Step 2: Content validity study; Step 3: Psychometric testing of construct validity, reliability, and sensitivity of the diary in a randomized, placebo-controlled study in patients with nocturia.

RESULTS

Step 1: Fourteen items and 4 domains were included in the first draft of the diary. Step 2: Twenty-three patients with nocturia participated in the cognitive debriefing study. Items were adjusted accordingly, and the content validity was high. Step 3: Fifty-six patients were randomized to desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet or placebo. The diary demonstrated high construct validity, with good sensitivity and a good fit to Rasch model, as well as high internal consistency, discriminatory ability, and acceptable sensitivity to change. Results indicated that the diary was unidimensional.

CONCLUSIONS

The Nocturia Impact Diary is a convenient, validated patient-reported outcome measure. It should be used in conjunction with a voiding diary to capture the real-life consequences of nocturia and its treatment.

Estimation of sodium and potassium intakes assessed by two 24 h urine collections in healthy Japanese adults: a nationwide study

Excess Na intake and insufficient K intake are well-known risk factors for CVD. International comparative studies have reported that Japan has the highest intake of Na and the lowest intake of K in the world. However, no recent study has precisely assessed Na and K intakes in Japanese adults. In the present study, Na and K intakes were estimated from two 24 h urine collections implemented in twenty-three out of forty-seven prefectures in Japan. Apparently healthy men (n 384) and women (n 376), aged 20 to 69 years, who had been working in welfare facilities were recruited, with data collection conducted in February and March 2013. The mean Na excretion was 206·0 mmol/d in men and 173·9 mmol/d in women. The respective values of K excretion were 51·6 and 47·2 mmol/d. The excretion of both Na and K varied considerably among the prefectures, and was higher in subjects with a higher BMI. In contrast, only K excretion was associated with age. After estimating the usual intakes of Na and K, it was found that none of the male subjects met the recommended Na intake values of the WHO, and that only 3·2 % met those of the Japanese government. The respective values for females were 0·1 and 5·0 %. For K intake, 7·5 % of the total subjects met the recommended values of the WHO and 21·7 % met those of the Japanese government. These findings suggest that there is an urgent need for the development of an effective intervention programme to reduce Na intake and promote K intake in the Japanese population.

Nocturia is the Lower Urinary Tract Symptom With Greatest Impact on Quality of Life of Men From a Community Setting

PURPOSE

Lower urinary tract symptoms are numerous, but the specific impact of each of these symptoms on the quality of life (QoL) has not been evaluated in community-dwelling men. An assessment of these symptoms and their effects on QoL was the focus of this study.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study with 373 men aged >50 years from a community setting. Patients completed the International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaire, which includes questions on each of the specific urinary symptoms and a question addressing health-related QoL that are graded from 0 to 5. We used the Pearson correlation test to assess the impact of each symptom on QoL.

RESULTS

Nocturia (58.9%) was the most prevalent urinary symptom. The mean score was 0.9±1.4 for incomplete emptying, 1.0±1.5 for frequency, 0.9±1.3 for intermittency, 0.8±1.3 for urgency, 1.0±1.5 for weak stream, 0.5±1.0 for straining, and 2.0±1.6 for nocturia. Nocturia and frequency were the only symptoms associated with poorer QoL, with nocturia showing a stronger association.

CONCLUSIONS

Nocturia affects 50% of community dwelling men aged >50 years, and is the lower urinary tract symptom with the greatest negative impact on QoL.

Exploring nocturia: gender, age, and causes

PURPOSE

This study aims to clarify differences in parameters based on frequency volume chart (FVC) and on daytime and nighttime urine according to the nocturia frequency, age, and gender.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This observational study was executed between 2011 and 2013. Participants (>18 years, ≤65 years) with or without nocturia (controls) were included and completed a 72 hr FVC; osmolality and sodium excretion were analyzed on daytime and nighttime urine.

RESULTS

(1) Nocturia severity: Compared to controls (N = 38), those with ≥2 nocturia episodes (N = 29) have higher nocturnal voided volume (NVV) (P < 0.001) based on increased sodium excretion (P = 0.003) and lower functional bladder capacity (P < 0.001). Those with one nocturia episode (N = 21) present with lower bladder capacity (P = 0.005). (2) Gender: women with 1 and ≥2 episodes have lower bladder capacity than controls (P = 0.047 and P < 0.001, respectively). Men with ≥2 episodes present with increased NVV (P = 0.001) and decreased bladder capacity (P = 0.049). (3) Age: Younger participants (<44 years) with ≥2 nocturia episodes present with lower functional bladder capacity than controls (P < 0.001). Older participants (45-65 years) present with both increasing NVV and decreasing bladder capacity with increasing nocturia frequency (P < 0.001); sodium excretion is higher in those with ≥2 episodes (P = 0.029). (4) Causes: the percentage of isolated NP decreases (P = 0.005), whereas the combination of both causes increases with increase in number of nocturia episodes (P = 0.020).

CONCLUSIONS

The mismatch between functional bladder capacity and NVV with increasing nocturia frequency demands a comprehensive diagnostic approach to subtype the patient, which involves anamnesis, FVC, and analysis of daytime and nighttime urine.

Behavioral treatment of insomnia: also effective for nocturia

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate changes in self-reported nocturia in community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older who received behavioral treatment for chronic insomnia.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of a behavioral intervention for sleep.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Of the 79 enrollees, this analysis focused on 30 who, in addition to insomnia, also reported at least one nightly episode of waking up to void.

INTERVENTION

The brief behavioral treatment of insomnia (BBTI) group (n = 14) received instructions on reducing time in bed and setting a regular sleep schedule. The information control (IC) group (n = 16) received printed materials. A nurse clinician delivered both interventions.

MEASUREMENTS

Self-reported nocturnal awakenings to void assessed daily for 14 days at baseline and 4 weeks after the intervention. Participants who reported at least one episode of nocturia per night at baseline were included in this analysis.

RESULTS

In individuals with nocturia at baseline, the total number of nocturnal voids over the 14-day assessment period decreased by 6.5 ± 4.8 in the BBTI group and increased by 1.3 ± 7.3 in the IC group (P = .04, effect size 0.82). After adjusting for baseline nocturia episodes, the difference remained significant (P = .05).

CONCLUSION

In older adults with concurrent insomnia and nocturia, behavioral treatment directed solely at insomnia may also improve self-reported nocturia. Behavioral treatment of insomnia should be further investigated for its effect on nocturia in individuals with concurrent insomnia and nocturia.

Desmopressin in the treatment of nocturia: clinical evidence and experience

Nocturia is a common and bothersome condition experienced by both men and women. Studies have suggested that nocturia contributes a level of morbidity to those who suffer from the condition, both young and old. Desmopressin has historically been utilized to treat conditions such as central diabetes insipidus, certain bleeding disorders and primary nocturnal enuresis. Recently, interest has increased as to the use of desmopressin (a vasopressin analog) in the treatment of adult nocturia, for whom nocturnal polyuria is prevalent. While desmopressin has been traditionally administered in tablet and bioequivalent high dose melt formulations, newer low-dose orally disintegrating sublingual desmopressin has been recently studied to determine safe and efficacious dosing strategies. In this review, nocturia and its associated morbidities are discussed, followed by a contemporary literature review regarding the safety and efficacy of desmopressin for its treatment.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Nocturia in an Outpatient Clinic

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the prevalence of and risk factors in patients with nocturia at a general medical clinic in Naha, Japan.

METHODS

We enrolled patients who had been regularly followed-up at a general medical clinic in Naha. Patients were asked to complete a self-reported questionnaire regarding medical history and the frequency of nocturnal voids in the last month with anonymity. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression tests were used to evaluate the risk factors for clinically significant nocturia.

RESULTS

In total, 357 patients (men, 192; women, 165; mean age, 60 years) were eligible for analysis. The prevalence rate of clinically significant nocturia in patients was 33.8%. Univariate, as well as multivariate, analysis revealed that age, gender, and hypertension were significant risk factors for nocturia.

CONCLUSION

Clinically significant nocturia is common among patients seen at a general medical clinic. Age and gender are the most definitive risk factors for nocturia. Hypertension may also be related to nocturia. Thus, it is important to evaluate not only urological problems but other medical problems in patients with nocturia.

Is nocturia of young adulthood a remnant of childhood nocturnal enuresis?

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Nocturia and nocturnal enuresis (NE) share similar aetiopathological factors, and may represent two different situations involving the same underlying issue. In this study, we tried to evaluate the relation between NE of childhood and nocturia of young adulthood.

METHODS

A total of 577 female university students aged 17-24 years were included in the survey. A face-to-face questionnaire was administered concerning present nocturia and past NE history. A non-validated questionnaire, created by the authors, was used to evaluate the presence and the frequency of childhood NE and present nocturia. All participant data were checked by telephone contact with their parents.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence rates of nocturia and history of nocturnal enuresis in the study population were 8.6 % and 15 % respectively. Sixteen per cent of nocturics and 15 % of non-nocturics had a history of childhood NE (p = 0.837). The childhood NE was graded as severe or infrequent. The presence of nocturia was compared between participants with severe NE and infrequent NE, and no significant difference was observed (11.1 % vs 7.8 %, p = 0.713). Nocturia frequency was compared with the history of childhood NE and we found that as the nocturia frequency increased, the rate of childhood NE also increased.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no relation between young adulthood nocturia and childhood NE in our study population, but as the severity of nocturia increased, the relation between nocturia and NE became more relevant.

Current evaluation and treatment of nocturia

Nocturia is usually considered to be just one of the symptoms included with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and is treated with therapy based on LUTS. Recent research suggests, however, that nocturia is not merely a simple symptom of LUTS but is a multifactorial condition with many contributing etiological factors. The causes of nocturia can be classified into bladder storage problems, increased urine output, sleep disturbance problems, and other potential diseases. The frequency-volume chart (FVC) is very important in evaluating and diagnosing nocturia. Patients usually record the volume and timing of voids for a period of 1 to 3 days on the FVC. The FVC data can provide information on voiding patterns and clues about the etiology and treatment of nocturia. It is doubtful that alpha-blockers will have clinical significance for treatment because the difference in nocturia episodes between treatment with alpha-blockers and placebo is too small. Antimuscarinics also exert no effect on nocturnal polyuria, and the evidence supporting the efficacy of antimuscarinics for the treatment of nocturia is limited. However, several randomized placebo-controlled trials have shown the efficacy of oral desmopressin in the treatment of adults with nocturia. Short-acting hypnotics may be helpful for patients with sleep disturbances. Although surgical or interventional therapy is not indicated for nocturia, transurethral resection of the prostate appears to confer a greater improvement in benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms including nocturia. The management of nocturia may require a team approach by making optimal use of multidisciplinary expertise.

Nocturia in arterial hypertension: a prevalent, underreported, and sometimes underestimated association

Nocturia is a risk factor for morbidity and mortality but is frequently overlooked and underreported by patients and unrecognized by physicians. Epidemiologic studies reported that nocturnal voiding is associated not only with aging and benign prostatic hyperplasia, but also with many other clinical conditions. The majority of epidemiologic studies reported a significant relationship between nocturia and hypertension. However, the cause-and-effect relationship between them has not been established. Some physiopathological changes in hypertension are conducive to result in nocturia. These include the effects of hypertension on glomerular filtration and tubular transport, resetting of the kidney pressure-natriuresis relationship, atrial stretch and release of atrial natriuretic peptide when congestive heart failure complicates hypertension, and peripheral edema. Another link between hypertension and nocturia is obstructive sleep apnea. Furthermore, some evidence supports the relationship between nondipping behavior of blood pressure and an increased prevalence of nocturia. The use of some classes of antihypertensive agents may result in nocturia. The present review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the epidemiologic evidence and physiopathological links that correlate hypertension and nocturia. Emphasis is placed on the need to take a pro-active attitude to detect and treat this hazardous condition.

Prevalence, associated factors, and relationship to quality of life of lower urinary tract symptoms: a cross-sectional, questionnaire survey of cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Few studies conducted outside of Asia have shown that lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) could be a concern for cancer patients. This gap necessitates more research on LUTS among cancer patients in Asia, particularly regarding associated factors and the relationship between quality of life and LUTS.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigates the prevalence, associated factors, and relationship to quality of life of LUTS based on a sample of cancer patients.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional, questionnaire survey.

SETTINGS/PARTICIPANTS

This study was conducted at two oncology outpatient departments in two hospitals in Taiwan, and included 134 Asian cancer patients.

METHODS

We collected information about each participant's individual characteristics, personal habits, LUTS, and quality of life by using a questionnaire. We calculated descriptive statistics to demonstrate the distribution of collected information, and used multivariate logistic regression to identify the factors associated with LUTS. We used Student's t-test to compare the mean quality of life scores for participants with and without LUTS.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine (73.9%) participants experienced at least one type of LUTS, and the prevalence rates for various types of LUTS ranged from 3.7% to 52.2%. Radiotherapy and the time since the diagnosis of cancer were associated with LUTS. Participants with LUTS reported lower quality of life scores than participants without LUTS.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of LUTS suggests that cancer treatment might be linked to LUTS, which in turn has a negative effect on a patient's quality of life. These results suggest that future research should involve studies in larger, more homogeneous samples. Health care providers should monitor the presence of LUTS and deliver the management and treatments of LUTS to optimise cancer patients' quality of life.

Efficacy and safety of low dose desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet in men with nocturia: results of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group study

PURPOSE

We investigated the efficacy and safety of 50 and 75 μg desmopressin orally disintegrating tablets in men with nocturia (2 or more nocturnal voids).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this 3-month, randomized, double-blind, parallel study 50 and 75 μg desmopressin were compared with placebo. The co-primary efficacy end points were changes from baseline in mean number of nocturnal voids and proportions of patients achieving at least a 33% reduction from baseline in nocturnal voids (33% responders) during a 3-month treatment period.

RESULTS

The full analysis set comprised 385 men (age range 20 to 87 years). The 50 and 75 μg doses significantly reduced the number of nocturnal voids (-0.37, p <0.0001 and -0.41, p = 0.0003, respectively) and increased the odds of a 33% or greater response (OR 1.98, p = 0.0009 and OR 2.04, p = 0.0004, respectively) compared with placebo during 3 months. Desmopressin 50 and 75 μg increased the time to first void from baseline by approximately 40 minutes compared to placebo (p = 0.006 and p = 0.003, respectively). The response to desmopressin was seen by 1 week of treatment and was sustained. Significant increases in health related quality of life and sleep quality were observed compared to placebo. Desmopressin was well tolerated as only 2 subjects (age 74 and 79 years) on 50 μg had a serum sodium level of less than 130 mmol/L (vs 9 subjects on 75 μg).

CONCLUSIONS

Desmopressin (orally disintegrating tablet) is an effective and well tolerated treatment for men with nocturia. Treatment with 50 μg desmopressin, the minimum effective dose, provided sustained improvement of nocturia throughout the study and meaningful benefits to patients with an improved safety profile.

Efficacy and safety of low dose desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet in women with nocturia: results of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel group study

PURPOSE

Previous studies suggest a lower dose of desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet may be effective in females compared to males with nocturia. We confirm the efficacy and safety of 25 μg desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet compared to placebo in female patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this 3-month, randomized, double-blind, parallel group study 25 μg desmopressin once daily was compared to placebo in women with nocturia (2 or more nocturnal voids). The co-primary efficacy end points were change from baseline in mean number of nocturnal voids and proportion of patients achieving at least a 33% reduction from baseline in the mean number of nocturnal voids (33% responders).

RESULTS

The full analysis set comprised 261 patients (age range 19 to 87 years). Desmopressin significantly reduced the mean number of nocturnal voids and increased the odds of a 33% or greater response compared to placebo during 3 months, assessed by longitudinal analysis (-0.22, p = 0.028 and OR 1.85, p = 0.006, respectively). Desmopressin increased the mean time to first nocturnal void by 49 minutes compared to placebo at 3 months (p = 0.003). The response to desmopressin was seen by week 1 of treatment and was sustained throughout the trial. Significant increases in health related quality of life and sleep quality were observed compared to placebo. Desmopressin was well tolerated. Serum sodium levels remained greater than 125 mmol/L throughout the trial and 3 transient decreases to less than 130 mmol/L were recorded.

CONCLUSIONS

At a dose of 25 μg, desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet is an effective and well tolerated treatment for women with nocturia. Treatment provides rapid and sustained improvement in nocturia and quality of life.

Influence of type of nocturia and lower urinary tract symptoms on therapeutic outcome in women treated with desmopressin

PURPOSE

To investigate the type of nocturia and concomitant voiding dysfunction (VD) and the effect of desmopressin treatment on nocturia in women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed 84 women who experienced more than 2 nocturia episodes as recorded on a pretreatment frequency volume chart and who were treated with desmopressin. All patients underwent history taking, physical examination, urinalysis, International Prostate Symptom Score assessment, completion of a urinary sensation scale, and completion of a 3 day frequency volume chart. Nocturia was divided into nocturnal polyuria (NP), reduced nocturnal bladder capacity (RNBC), and mixed type. After treatment with desmopressin, a reduction in nocturia of over 50% compared with baseline was regarded as effective.

RESULTS

Among 84 women, the most common concomitant VD was overactive bladder (OAB, 60.7%). NP was observed in 70.2% (59/84) of the women, RNBC in 7.1% (6/84), and mixed type in 22.6% (19/84). After medication with desmopressin, 73 women (86.9%) showed a significantly reduced number of nocturia episodes (1.4±1.5) compared with baseline (3.7±1.3, p<0.05). Eleven women (13.1%) did not show improvement. Of the 73 women who showed improvement, 41 women showed a reduction of more than 50% over baseline, and these women had a lower baseline urgency grade.

CONCLUSIONS

In the majority of women, nocturia coexisted with other VD such as OAB. Treatment with desmopressin effectively reduced the nocturia. However, other lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as urgency may reduce the effect of desmopressin. Therefore, consideration of concomitant LUTS seems to be necessary to increase the treatment effect of desmopressin on nocturia in women.

The New England Research Institutes, Inc. (NERI) Nocturia Advisory Conference 2012: focus on outcomes of therapy

A consensus statement published in 2011 summarised current research, clinical approaches, and treatment options for nocturia. Since that time, new research has refined our understanding of nocturia in clinically important ways and new evidence has been presented on the efficacy and outcomes of several treatment methods for this underreported, infrequently recognised, and undertreated problem in adults. This paper provides updated guidance to clinicians in light of recent advances in the field.

[Screening test for overactive bladder in a newly developed comprehensive geriatric assessment initiative]

PURPOSE

Lower urinary tract symptoms, particularly in overactive bladder (OAB), are frequently observed among elderly patients. The impact of OAB on their quality of life is so strong that the assessment of OAB is necessary in comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). As CGA takes time to complete, we established a convenient instrument consisting of 2 questions on OAB and assessed its utility.

METHOD

We recruited 123 elderly patients with various diseases (mean age: 83.2 years, 63 men), in whom 2 questions on nocturia (Q1) and urinary incontinence at night (Q2) were asked. Thereafter, overactive bladder symptom scores (OABSS) were obtained to diagnose OAB based on the OAB criteria. Statistical analyses for Q1 and Q2 were performed using the OABSS criterion as a gold standard. To elucidate the clinical characteristics of the elderly patients, they were divided into 2 groups on the basis of the presence or absence of nocturia: nocturia (+) and nocturia (-) groups. The nocturia (+) group was subdivided into 2 subgroups: with or without incontinence.

RESULTS

Nocturia (Q1) was observed in 82 elderly patients and urinary incontinence (Q2) in 23, whereas OAB was diagnosed in 22. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) of Q1 (Q1+Q2) were 100% (68.2%), 40.6% (92.1%), and 26.8% (65.2%), respectively. The nocturia (+) group patients were characterized as predominantly composed of men with cerebrovascular disease, disturbed activities of daily living, interrupted sleep, delayed wake-up time, and treatment with diuretics. Furthermore, Parkinson disease, depressive state, sedentary life style, and treatment without diuretics were frequently observed in patients in the incontinence (+) subgroup.

CONCLUSION

A low PPV with a high sensitivity of Q1 was improved by using Q1+Q2, where both Q1 and Q2 enable better assessment of OAB resulting in being a useful screening test for OAB.

Nocturia: current concepts and future perspectives

Nocturia is a prevalent highly bothersome urinary symptom that may significantly detriment the health and well-being of sufferers. It is characterized by waking at night to void, each void preceded and followed by sleep, hence leading to fragmentation of sleep and day-time tiredness. This may result in reduced productivity in the workplace, which contributes to the significant burden to the wider society that nocturia incurs. Nocturia was traditionally viewed as one of the many urinary tract symptoms that occur due to lower urinary tract dysfunction. However, recently it has been recognized that due to its multi-factorial aetio-pathogenesis, nocturia should be viewed as distinct clinical condition in its own right. Careful assessment of the nocturic patient is essential so that treatment strategies are guided by the likely causes. Much research is currently being undertaken into the underlying causes and the optimal management approaches. This review will explore the contemporary status of research on nocturia with a focus on the current and newly available pharmacotherapies.

Efficacy and safety of flexible dose fesoterodine in men and women with overactive bladder symptoms including nocturnal urinary urgency

PURPOSE

Awakening from sleep to urinate is the hallmark of nocturia, a condition that impacts several facets of health related quality of life and for which current therapy is suboptimal. Given the paucity of prospective data on antimuscarinics for the management of nocturia, we investigated the efficacy and safety of flexible dose fesoterodine for the treatment of nocturnal urgency in subjects with nocturia and overactive bladder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subjects with 2 to 8 nocturnal urgency episodes per 24 hours began a 2-week, single-blind, placebo run-in followed by 1:1 randomization to 12 weeks of double-blind treatment with fesoterodine (4 mg daily for 4 weeks with an optional increase to 8 mg) or placebo using predefined criteria for nocturnal urgency episodes, nocturnal urine volume voided and total 24-hour urine volume voided. The primary end point was change from baseline to week 12 in the mean number of micturition related nocturnal urgency episodes per 24 hours.

RESULTS

Overall 963 subjects were randomized from 2,990 screened, and 82% of subjects treated with fesoterodine and 84% of those treated with placebo completed the study. Significant improvements in the primary end point (-1.28 vs -1.07), in nocturnal micturitions per 24 hours (-1.02 vs -0.85) and in nocturnal frequency urgency sum (-4.01 vs -3.42) were observed with fesoterodine vs placebo (all p ≤0.01). Health related quality of life measures (overactive bladder questionnaire Symptom Bother -20.1 vs -16.5, sleep 22.3 vs 19.9 and other domains; all p <0.05) were improved with fesoterodine.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge this is the first prospective study to assess antimuscarinic efficacy for reducing nocturnal urgency. Flexible dose fesoterodine significantly reduced nocturnal urgency episodes vs placebo in subjects with overactive bladder.

Risks of nocturia in patients with chronic kidney disease--do the metabolic syndrome and its components matter?

PURPOSE

We evaluate the risk factors for nocturia in patients with chronic kidney disease, and determine whether the metabolic syndrome and its components aggravate nocturia in these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We enrolled patients with chronic kidney disease who had regular followup at nephrology clinics, and excluded from study those patients undergoing dialysis, and those with neurogenic bladder or active urinary tract infection. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire including medical history, clinical parameters and times of nocturnal voids in the last month. Laboratory parameters were checked when the questionnaire was completed. Clinically significant nocturia was defined as voiding 2 or more times per night. The metabolic syndrome was defined according to the ATP III (National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III) guidelines. Chronic kidney disease was divided into 5 stages (based on National Kidney Foundation guidelines). Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the risk factors for clinically significant nocturia.

RESULTS

A total of 202 men and 234 women were eligible for analysis (mean age 68.4 years). The prevalence rate of clinically significant nocturia in patients with chronic kidney disease was 64.0%. Statistically significant risk factors for clinically significant nocturia were patient age (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.003-1.04) and chronic kidney disease stage (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.19-1.81) but not gender. Although 53.9% of our patients with chronic kidney disease had the metabolic syndrome, the metabolic syndrome (adjusted OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.64-1.44) and its components had no significant correlations with clinically significant nocturia.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinically significant nocturia is prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease, and the severity increased with chronic kidney disease stage and patient age. Contrary to previous reports, the metabolic syndrome did not increase the risk of clinically significant nocturia in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Gender difference in efficacy and dose response in Japanese patients with nocturia treated with four different doses of desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

WHAT'S KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT? AND WHAT DOES THE STUDY ADD?: Desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) 60-240 μg has proved an effective and well-tolerated antidiuretic treatment in male and female patients with nocturia. The main adverse event is hyponatraemia. Recent studies suggest that female patients are more sensitive to desmopressin ODT, achieving the same efficacy at lower doses than male patients. The study demonstrates the efficacy of desmopressin ODT in male and female Japanese patients with nocturia. It provides further evidence that the optimum desmopressin dose for the treatment of nocturia is lower in females than in males. Tailoring the dose according to gender provides an improved therapeutic window with the benefits of a decreased risk of hyponatraemia without compromising efficacy.

OBJECTIVES

To establish the dose-response efficacy of desmopressin in a Japanese patient population for the treatment of nocturia. To explore gender differences in sensitivity to desmopressin in Japanese patients with nocturia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A phase II multicentre, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, comparative clinical trial was conducted. Subjects aged 55-75 years, with a mean of ≥2 voids per night, were included and randomized to receive placebo or one of four doses of desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet (ODT): 10 μg, 25 μg, 50 μg or 100 μg. The dose-response relationship of pharmacodynamic variables measured after a single dose of desmopressin administered to water-loaded subjects (treatment period 1) was compared with the primary clinical endpoint of change from baseline in mean number of nocturnal voids, after 28 days of desmopressin treatment (treatment period 2).

RESULTS

A total of 116 patients were treated in treatment period 1 of whom 113 qualified for treatment period 2, and 111 completed the study. In treatment period 1 a dose-response relationship was observed, both overall and in each gender group. Overall, the duration of antidiuretic action (DOA; time with urine osmolality >200 mOsm/kg) for the 25, 50 and 100 μg doses was 2 h (P = 0.010), 3.45 h (P < 0.001) and 5.74 h (P < 0.001), respectively; all statistically significant compared with placebo. Female patients were found to be more sensitive to desmopressin; DOA in female patients was longer than in male patients after desmopressin 25 and 50 μg. Extrapolation suggests that male patients require ∼58 μg to achieve similar DOA to females receiving 25 μg. A dose-response relationship was also seen in treatment period 2 for the group overall with a greater reduction in mean number of nocturnal voids from baseline to day 28 at higher doses, and with significant reductions in the 25- (P = 0.015) 50- (P < 0.001) and 100-μg (P = 0.001) dose groups compared with placebo. Similar dose-response relationships were also seen when the data were analysed by gender. Desmopressin ODT was well tolerated with no serious or severe adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

A dose-response relationship for desmopressin ODT was shown in a population of Japanese patients with nocturia. The study suggests that the optimum desmopressin dose for the treatment of nocturia is lower in females than in males, indicating a gender-specific therapeutic window with a decreased risk of hyponatraemia without compromising efficacy on reduction of nocturnal voids. Further dose-finding studies are planned to confirm the recommended dose for the treatment of nocturia in a Japanese patient population.

Involvement of urinary bladder Connexin43 and the circadian clock in coordination of diurnal micturition rhythm

Nocturnal enuresis in children and nocturia in the elderly are two highly prevalent clinical conditions characterized by a mismatch between urine production rate in the kidneys and storage in the urinary bladder during the sleep phase. Here we demonstrate, using a novel method for automated recording of mouse micturition, that connexin43 (Cx43), a bladder gap junction protein, is a negative regulator of functional bladder capacity. Bladder Cx43 levels and functional capacity show circadian oscillations in wild-type mice, but such rhythms are completely lost in Cry-null mice having a dysfunctional biological clock. Bladder muscle cells have an internal clock, and show oscillations of Cx43 and gap junction function. A clock regulator, Rev-erbα, upregulates Cx43 transcription as a co-factor of Sp1 using Sp1 cis-elements of the promoter. Therefore, circadianoscillation of Cx43 is associated with the biological clock and contributes to diurnal changes in bladder capacity, which avoids disturbance of sleep by micturition.

Prevalence and correlates of nocturia in community-dwelling older men: results from the korean longitudinal study on health and aging

Purpose

To determine the prevalence and correlates of nocturia in Korean community-dwelling older men.

Materials and Methods

A study population of 439 Korean elderly men (≥65 years of age, including 299 men from a randomly sampled population) was sampled from residents of Seongnam, Korea. Standardized face-to-face interviews and questionnaires were performed. In-person interviews solicited sociodemographic information, medical history, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score, and measurement of body mass index. Transrectal ultrasonography and laboratory tests including urinalysis and measurement of creatinine and prostate-specific antigen were performed. For the analysis of prevalence, 299 randomly sampled men were included. Men who answered the International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaire (n=424) were included in the analysis of the correlates of nocturia. Nocturia was defined as having to get up to urinate two or more times per night (≥2).

Results

The overall prevalence of nocturia was 56.0% for community-dwelling older men. There was a significant correlation between age and the prevalence of nocturia (p<0.001). The univariate analysis revealed a significant association between nocturia and MMSE score (odds ratio [OR], 0.88; p<0.001), history of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (OR, 2.85; p=0.003), alpha-blocker usage (OR, 2.79; p=0.018), alcohol consumption (OR, 0.65; p=0.035), and smoking (OR, 0.58; p=0.025). Age, duration of education, MMSE score, and prostate volume were also significantly associated with nocturia. In the multivariate regression analysis using forward elimination, nocturia was significantly associated with a history of BPH and MMSE score.

Conclusions

The prevalence of nocturia was 56.0% in Korean community-dwelling older men. Nocturia was associated with age and a history of BPH. MMSE score was protective.

Desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet effectively reduces nocturia: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

AIMS

The primary objective was to investigate the efficacy of desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet versus placebo in patients with nocturia. Pharmacodynamics, safety and patient-reported quality of life (QoL) outcomes were also evaluated. One of several benefits of the new formulation is increased bioavailability. Exploring lower doses allows for a better evaluation of therapeutic effect versus tolerability.

METHODS

This was a 4-week, randomized, double-blind study comparing 10, 25, 50, or 100 µg desmopressin versus placebo in adults with defined nocturia.

RESULTS

The intent to treat population comprised 757 patients experiencing ∼3 voids/night and a high prevalence of nocturnal polyuria (∼90%). Increasing doses of desmopressin were associated with decreasing numbers of nocturnal voids and voided volume, greater proportions of subjects with >33% reduction in nocturnal voids, and increased duration of first sleep period. The lowest dose reaching statistical significance (P < 0.05 vs. placebo) varied by endpoint. Improvements were clinically meaningful, meaning that patients actually had fewer nightly voids. Post hoc analyses by gender suggested a lower minimum effective dose for women. Desmopressin was generally well tolerated. Reductions in serum sodium to <125 mmol/L in six women (taking >25 µg desmopressin) and two men (aged 67 and 82) taking 100 µg, support lower and gender-specific dosing to reduce the small but clinically significant risk of hyponatraemia. Each void reduced/hour of sleep gained was associated with significant improvements in QoL.

CONCLUSIONS

Desmopressin orally disintegrating tablet is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for patients with nocturia. Further exploration of the lower dose range is warranted.

Nocturia in older men

Nocturia is a common and bothersome symptom that impacts on sleep-quality and quality of life. Nocturia often has a multi-factorial etiology which makes thorough assessment of the complaint indispensable. This review summarizes the definition of nocturia, its epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnostics, and treatment options with special reference to older men. Nocturia is defined as a nocturnal voiding frequency of two or more, based on impact on quality of life. It is very prevalent in older men. Apart from the negative effects of sleep-disruption, it may be a risk-factor for hip fractures and increased mortality. Most common causes are: nocturnal polyuria, 24-h polyuria, overactive bladder (sometimes due to BPH) and sleep disturbance. A clear understanding of the etiology in the individual patient is indispensable when addressing the various possible causes and co-morbidities. Most important tool for this is the frequency-volume chart, but also patient history, physical examination and serum analysis. For treatment, lifestyle adjustments are often helpful. Medical therapy with 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, alpha-blockers, a combination of the two, or anti-muscarinics, has a limited effect. Most important medical option is desmopressin (arginine vasopressin analogue); however, treatment with this drug is limited to men under 65 years mainly due to the risk of hyponatraemia.

Excessive nocturnal urine production is a major contributing factor to the etiology of nocturia

PURPOSE

Nocturnal polyuria is a common but often overlooked cause of nocturia. We investigated the proportion of adults with 2 or greater voids nightly who had nocturnal polyuria in 2 cohorts from the United States and Europe.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data on nocturnal polyuria were obtained from 3 or 7-day frequency-volume charts completed by patients as part of screening for inclusion in subsequent trials of nocturia therapy. Patients recorded the time and volume of each void. Nocturnal polyuria was defined as nocturnal urine volume greater than 33% of 24-hour volume, including the first morning void.

RESULTS

In the first cohort 1,003 patients were screened, of whom 846 provided evaluable diary data, including 641 (76%) with nocturnal polyuria. Of the total screened population of 1,003 patients 641 (64%) had confirmed nocturnal polyuria. The prevalence of nocturnal polyuria increased with age but was high in all age groups. In the second cohort 1,412 patients were screened, of whom 917 provided evaluable diary data, including 806 (88%) with nocturnal polyuria. Of the total screened population of 1,412 patients 806 (57%) had confirmed nocturnal polyuria. The prevalence of nocturnal polyuria increased with age but was high in all age groups. Of 158 patients receiving benign prostatic hyperplasia and/or overactive bladder medication 141 (89%) had nocturnal polyuria. In each cohort the nocturnal polyuria prevalence was high in all ethnic groups (63% or greater).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large study nocturnal polyuria was present in most patients with nocturia regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, country and concomitant benign prostatic hyperplasia/overactive bladder therapy.

Once nocturia, always nocturia? Natural history of nocturia in older men based on frequency-volume charts: the Krimpen study

PURPOSE

Nocturia is a highly prevalent and bothersome symptom that might (spontaneously) resolve. However, longitudinal data are not available on the incidence and resolution of nocturia assessed with frequency-volume charts. In this study we determined the prevalence, incidence and resolution rates of nocturia assessed by frequency-volume charts, and compared nocturnal voiding frequency over time as assessed by frequency-volume charts and questionnaires.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A longitudinal, population based study was conducted among 1,688 men 50 to 78 years old with followup rounds at 2.1, 4.2 and 6.5 years. Nocturnal voiding frequency was determined with frequency-volume charts and, for comparison purposes, with a question from the International Prostate Symptom Score. Nocturia was defined as nocturnal voiding frequency 2 or greater. Prevalence, incidence and resolution rates were also determined.

RESULTS

At the 2.1-year followup the incidence rate was 23.9% and the resolution rate was 36.7%. The incidence rate was highest in the oldest group (70 to 78 years) and lowest in the youngest (50 to 54 years), whereas the resolution rate was highest in the group 55 to 59 years old and lowest in the oldest group. Because of the high resolution rate, no reliable incidence rates can be calculated. Despite fluctuation, the prevalence of nocturia increased with age and over time (from 34.4% to 44.7% for the total group, p <0.05). Men who had a frequency-volume chart-nocturnal voiding frequency less than International Prostate Symptom Score-nocturnal voiding frequency (6% of the population) more often had this later on.

CONCLUSIONS

In this population frequency-volume chart assessed nocturia shows considerable fluctuation. Nevertheless, prevalence increases over time and with increasing age. Men who once had frequency-volume chart-nocturnal voiding frequency less than International Prostate Symptom Score-nocturnal voiding frequency are more likely to have this again. Therefore, frequency-volume charts as well as the International Prostate Symptom Score should be used when evaluating nocturia.

Nocturia in women

Nocturia is a common problem in adults, which adversely affects quality of sleep and quality of life. This review summarizes the definition, epidemiology, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnostic evaluation, and the therapeutic options with regard to a female population. Based on the degree of bother nocturia is classified as two or more episodes per night. It is most prevalent in older woman but also affects younger individuals. Voiding during nighttime leads to a disruption of sleep, affecting both sleep onset and maintenance. A clear understanding of its underlying pathophysiology, including diurnal polyuria, nocturnal polyuria, and bladder storage problems is necessary to address symptoms and co-morbid conditions. Diagnostic evaluation includes a detailed patient's history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and a voiding bladder diary. For treatment, tailored lifestyle and behavioural changes are able to decrease bother. In addition some patients profit from pharmacological therapy with antimuscarinic agents and analogue of arginine vasopressin, however this strategy is often restricted by side effects.

Nocturia in interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome

OBJECTIVES

To explore the roles of pain and urgency in the nocturia of patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS).

METHODS

In a longitudinal study of incident IC/PBS cases, we assessed the associations of the presence and severity of nocturia with the presence and severity of pain and urgency, using multivariate analyses when necessary. Additionally, we simply asked patients with IC/PBS what awakens them at night.

RESULTS

The multivariate analyses revealed associations of urgency with the presence and severity of nocturia and of bladder pain with the severity of nocturia. Direct queries of patients with IC/PBS about urgency and the reasons for awakening demonstrated that bladder pain might have played a twofold role: directly in awakening a large minority of patients and possibly indirectly in the majority by generating the sensation of urgency.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings are consistent with urinary urgency and bladder pain each being in the causal pathway leading to nocturia in patients with IC/PBS.