Limitations of anticholinergic cycling in patients with overactive bladder (OAB) with urinary incontinence (UI): results from the CONsequences of Treatment Refractory Overactive bLadder (CONTROL) study

The AUA/SUFU guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic overactive bladder

PURPOSE

The purpose of this guideline is to provide evidence-based guidance to clinicians of all specialties on the evaluation, management, and treatment of idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB). The guideline informs the reader on valid diagnostic processes and provides an approach to selecting treatment options for patients with OAB through the shared decision-making process, which will maximize symptom control and quality of life, while minimizing adverse events and burden of disease.

METHODS

An electronic search employing OVID was used to systematically search the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, as well as the Cochrane Library, for systematic reviews and primary studies evaluating diagnosis and treatment of OAB from January 2013 to November 2023. Criteria for inclusion and exclusion of studies were based on the Key Questions and the populations, interventions, comparators, outcomes, timing, types of studies and settings (PICOTS) of interest. Following the study selection process, 159 studies were included and were used to inform evidence-based recommendation statements.

RESULTS

This guideline produced 33 statements that cover the evaluation and diagnosis of the patient with symptoms suggestive of OAB; the treatment options for patients with OAB, including Noninvasive therapies, pharmacotherapy, minimally invasive therapies, invasive therapies, and indwelling catheters; and the management of patients with BPH and OAB.

CONCLUSION

Once the diagnosis of OAB is made, the clinician and the patient with OAB have a variety of treatment options to choose from and should, through shared decision-making, formulate a personalized treatment approach taking into account evidence-based recommendations as well as patient values and preferences.

Patient and Clinician Challenges with Anticholinergic Step Therapy in the Treatment of Overactive Bladder: A Narrative Review

Anticholinergics have been used in the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB), but their use is limited by poor tolerability and anticholinergic-related side effects. Increasingly, providers are discontinuing anticholinergic prescribing because of growing evidence of the association of anticholinergic use with increased risk of cognitive decline and other adverse effects. Newer medications for OAB, the β3-adrenergic receptor agonists mirabegron and vibegron, do not have anticholinergic properties and are typically well tolerated; however, many insurance plans have limited patient access to these newer OAB medications by requiring step therapy, meaning less expensive anticholinergic medications must be trialed and/or failed before a β3-agonist will be covered and dispensed. Thus, many patients are unable to easily access these medications. Step therapy and other drug utilization strategies (e.g., prior authorization) are often used to manage the growing costs of pharmaceuticals, but these policies do not always follow treatment guidelines and may harm patients as a result of treatment delays, discontinuations, or related increases in adverse events. Medical professionals have called for reform of drug utilization strategies through partnerships that include clinicians and policymakers. This narrative review discusses prescribing patterns for OAB treatment and the effect of switching between drugs, as well as the costs of step therapy and prior authorization on patients and prescribers.

Predicting Mirabegron Treatment Response in Patients with Overactive Bladder: A Post Hoc Analysis of Data from Clinical Trials

BACKGROUND

Many patients discontinue overactive bladder (OAB) treatment because of unmet treatment expectations and/or tolerability issues.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a model for predicting the individual treatment response to mirabegron using patient baseline characteristics.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This was a post hoc analysis of data from eight global phase 2/3, double-blind, randomized, placebo- or active-controlled trials of mirabegron in adult patients with OAB.

INTERVENTION

Mirabegron 50 mg once-daily monotherapy for ≥12 wk.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Primary efficacy outcomes were the change in the mean number of micturitions and the number of incontinence episodes/24 h after 12 wk of treatment. Secondary efficacy outcomes were the change in the mean number of urgency episodes/24 h and the change in Symptom Bother score after 12 wk of treatment. Baseline demographic characteristics, OAB-related characteristics, and intrinsic and extrinsic factor variables were used to create multivariable linear regression models to predict the primary and secondary outcomes.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Data for 3627 patients were included. The predicted effect of mirabegron 50 mg was an average of 2.5 fewer micturition episodes/24 h (95% confidence interval -2.85 to -2.14) and 0.81 fewer incontinence episodes/24 h (95% confidence interval -1.15 to -0.46) from baseline to week 12. A higher number of urgency episodes was predictive of a larger reduction in micturition episodes; body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2, OAB symptoms for ≥12 mo, and incontinence at baseline were predictive of a smaller reduction. Mixed stress/urgency incontinence and more than five urgency episodes per day were predictive of greater reductions in incontinence episodes. Reductions in urgency episodes and Symptom Bother score were also predicted with mirabegron. Limitations include the exclusion of placebo groups from the analysis and the use of clinical trial rather than real-world data.

CONCLUSIONS

Data from the predictive models provide new insights into the effects of modifiable factors (such as BMI) and nonmodifiable factors on treatment outcomes with mirabegron 50 mg.

PATIENT SUMMARY

This study aimed to identify factors that could predict how patients with overactive bladder respond to mirabegron treatment to help doctors effectively treat this condition. Mirabegron treatment was associated with a lower number of urinations and occurrences of urinary incontinence per day. Factors associated with worse responses to the medication included being obese.

A Retrospective Database Analysis to Investigate Treatment Patterns and Health Care Resource Utilisation in Patients who CYCLe AntiMuscarinics in ENgland (CYCLAMEN)

BACKGROUND

Patients with overactive bladder may cycle through different antimuscarinic medications even though there is limited evidence to support this approach.

OBJECTIVE

To describe treatment patterns and the associated health care resource utilisation (HCRU) according to antimuscarinic cycling groups.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The CYCLe AntiMuscarinics in ENgland (CYCLAMEN) study was a retrospective observational investigation that used primary care records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD database linked to Hospital Episode Statistics secondary care data. Eligible patients (≥18 yr) were prescribed their first antimuscarinic between January 2014 and December 2017. Patients were categorised into groups prescribed one, two, or three or more (groups 1-3) consecutive unique antimuscarinics over 18 mo.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The HCRU rate and costs were calculated for the period of continuous antimuscarinic therapy (first antimuscarinic treatment episode) and the 18-mo follow-up period. Treatment sequence patterns were displayed using sunburst plots and Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess time on treatment.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Overall, 35 369 patients were included, of whom 31 760 (89.8%) received one antimuscarinic (group 1), 3182 (9.0%) received two (group 2), and 427 (1.2%) received three or more (group 3). The most common initial antimuscarinics were solifenacin (13 628 patients, 42.9%) in group 1, and oxybutynin in group 2 (1267 patients, 39.8%) and group 3 (200 patients, 46.8%). The median duration of the first antimuscarinic treatment episode was 57 d and <20% of patients were receiving any antimuscarinic after 18 mo. The number of primary care visits and mean costs increased across groups. The reasons for cycling could not be identified in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Approximately 10% of patients underwent sequential cycling with two or more antimuscarinics. Furthermore, as the majority discontinued treatment within 18 mo, there is a need to improve the management of these patients in the clinical care setting.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We investigated treatment patterns and health care use for patients with overactive bladder who were prescribed at least one antimuscarinic drug (AMD), which are drugs that reduce some of the impulses passing from the bladder to the brain. Around 10% of patients accessing primary health care in England received more than one sequential AMD. Most patients discontinued treatment, which may indicate inadequate management of their condition. Prescription of a higher number of AMDs was associated with higher health care costs.

Cost-effectiveness of overactive bladder treatments from a US commercial and payer perspective

Aim: The cost-effectiveness of treatment options (anticholinergics, β3-adrenoceptor agonists, onabotulinumtoxinA, sacral nerve stimulation and percutaneous tibial stimulation [the latter two including new rechargeable neurostimulators]) for the management of overactive bladder (OAB) were compared with best supportive care (BSC) using a previously published Markov model. Materials & methods: Cost-effectiveness was evaluated over a 15-year time horizon, and sensitivity analyses were performed using 2- and 5-year horizons. Discontinuation rates, resource utilization, and costs were derived from published sources. Results: Using Medicare and commercial costs over a 15-year time period, onabotulinumtoxinA 100U had incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) gained of $39,591/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) and $42,255/QALY, respectively, versus BSC, which were the lowest ICERs of all assessed treatments. The sensitivity analyses at 2- and 5-year horizons also showed onabotulinumtoxinA to be the most cost-effective of all assessed treatments versus BSC. Conclusion: OnabotulinumtoxinA 100U is currently the most cost-effective treatment for OAB.

Pharmacological Management of Urinary Incontinence: Current and Emerging Treatment

Pharmacological management of urinary incontinence (UI) is currently based on antimuscarinic and beta-3-agonist drugs. Botulinum toxin A detrusor injections represent an effective but more invasive alternative. This review covers the latest developments of the currently available drugs and the emerging compounds for the treatment of UI. Evidence shows that new antimuscarinics and beta-3-agonists with improved safety profiles may offer unique options to patients intolerant to currently available drugs. Combination therapy proved to be a non-invasive alternative for patients refractory to first-line monotherapy. Exciting advances are ongoing in the research to improve the efficacy/tolerability profile of botulinum toxin, through innovative routes of administration. Several new agents emerged from preclinical studies, some of which have now entered the clinical phase of development and could represent, in the coming years, a new way for the treatment of UI. Recent evidence on the existence of different overactive bladder phenotypes could be the key to tailored treatment. Rather than discovering new molecules, reaching the ability to identify the right drug for the right patient could be the real gamechanger of the future.

What are the chances of improvement or cure from overactive bladder? A pooled responder analysis of efficacy and treatment emergent adverse events following treatment with fesoterodine

Aim

This study describes patients with different degrees and combinations of symptom resolution in response to fesoterodine exposure to aid physicians in counselling patients with overactive bladder (OAB) on the likelihood of treatment success.

Methods

Data came from 12‐week fixed‐dose studies of fesoterodine. The proportions of patients experiencing symptom resolution and change in patient‐reported outcome measures (PROM) at 4, 8, and 12 weeks were calculated. Treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAE) were reported according to response in urinary urgency episodes (UUE). The relationship between PROM and response was examined.

Results

Out of 6689 patients, 81.6% female, urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) episodes/24 h were more responsive to fesoterodine than UUE; with roughly 50% of patients reporting a 50% reduction and fewer than 10% reporting absence of UUE at 12 weeks compared to approximately 40%–50% reporting absence of UUI. TEAE was numerically lower in patients with greater response. There was a statistically significant relationship between improvement in urinary urgency and associated change in OAB‐q symptom bother scores, r = 0.54, p < 0.001. At Week 4, 64.0%–76.7% of patients who had achieved a significant change in Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC) had a 50% reduction in UUI. At Week 12 this proportion was between 80% and 87.9%, with those being exposed to fesoterodine treatment reporting response in PPBC at numerically higher rates.

Conclusion

These data provide clinicians with information from which they may usefully communicate the likelihood of symptom resolution in response to pharmacotherapy for OAB and answer a key clinical question posed by many care providers. Roughly ⅓ of fesoterodine treated patients reported a 50% reduction urgency and ¾ reported 50% resolution of incontinence at 12 weeks. Total resolution of all symptoms was seldom achieved.

Shifting the treatment paradigm in idiopathic overactive bladder

PURPOSE

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition that is known to have a significant impact on Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). Whilst all patients will initially benefit from lifestyle modifications and behavioural therapy in the first instance drug therapy remains integral in management pathways. The purpose of this review paper is to reappraise the evidence based approach to the management of OAB in addition to exploring a new treatment algorithm for the escalation of treatment in those patients with refractory symptoms.

DESIGN

Literature Review RESULTS: Antimuscarinic drugs are currently the most commonly used medication although the introduction of mirabegron, a β3 agonist, has provided an alternative and also allowed combination therapy in those patients who have failed to improve on primary therapy or who have troublesome side effects. For those patients with symptoms of refractory OAB more invasive therapies including OnabotulinumtoxinA, sacral neuromodulation and Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) may be indicated.

CONCLUSION

We propose a new, evidence based, treatment algorithm for the management of OAB in patients who remain refractory to first line therapy.

Which drugs are best for overactive bladder? From patients' expectations to physicians' decisions

AIM

In order to help physicians determine which drugs are the best for treating overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, this review considered three questions: what are the patient's expectations? What information is generated by the Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) model? What can physicians expect from medical treatments?

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was undertaken on these three topics in order to assist physicians regarding the optimum treatment modality for OAB.

RESULTS

Patients' difficulties in reporting symptoms and their expectations of treatment outcomes interfere with the success of treatment. To assist physicians in meeting patients' expectations and to choose the most appropriate treatment, a new approach, recognised by the European Medicines Agency, the MCDA model was used to compare the benefits and safety of OAB treatments.

CONCLUSION

The MCDA model is useful for comparing the benefit-safety profiles of OAB drugs in order to equip clinicians with information on the drug that might best meet their patient's needs. Flexibly dosed fesoterodine appeared to be most efficacious in resolving urgency and urgency incontinence compared with other drugs, and resolution of urinary urgency appears to be associated with a reduced number of reported adverse events.

Anticholinergic prescribing pattern changes of urogynecology providers in response to evidence of potential dementia risk

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Recent publications show an association between exposure to anticholinergic medications and the risk of developing dementia. We hypothesized that urogynecology providers have changed their overactive bladder syndrome treatment as a result of this literature.

METHODS

This was an anonymous, cross-sectional, web-based survey of American Urogynecologic Society members. Survey questions queried awareness of the referenced literature, prescribing practices, the impact of insurance on treatment plans, and demographics. Our primary outcome measured the change in prescribing practice in response to literature linking anticholinergic medications with the risk of dementia. Descriptive statistics were used.

RESULTS

A total of 222 urogynecology providers completed the survey. Nearly all respondents (99.1%) were aware of the recent literature, and, as a result, 90.5% reported changing their practice. Prior to the publication of recent literature, a "non-CNS-sparing" anticholinergic (e.g., oxybutynin) was most commonly prescribed (64.4%), whereas after the literature was published, this shifted to ß₃-adrenoceptor agonists (58.5%, p < 0.001). A majority of respondents (96.6%) reported that insurance restrictions led to a change in treatment for some patients, with 73.5% describing the prior-authorization process as difficult. Many providers (61.8%) reported that a trial of anticholinergics was required by insurance companies prior to authorizing mirabegron.

CONCLUSIONS

The recent literature associating anticholinergic medications with the development of dementia has changed practice patterns among survey respondents, with a shift away from anticholinergic medications and toward ß₃-adrenoceptor agonists. The majority of respondents report insurance barriers to non-anticholinergic therapies, resulting in alteration of their preferred practices.

Diagnosis and management of overactive bladder: A review

AIM

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common and troublesome condition that can significantly impair quality of life. This review aims to educate providers of obstetrics and gynecology services about available therapies for OAB and what to expect following treatment.

METHODS

Here, we review published data from studies that have evaluated available treatments for OAB. Relevant articles published over the past 2 decades, including large multicenter trials, were identified through a literature search using PubMed.gov, and the references in those articles were also manually searched to find additional articles. Treatment guidelines and product labels were also reviewed.

RESULTS

Behavioral therapy is recommended as a first choice for OAB management; pharmacologic treatment (anticholinergics, β₃ -adrenoceptor agonists) as second-line treatment; and onabotulinumtoxinA, peripheral tibial nerve stimulation, and sacral nerve stimulation as third-line therapy for patients refractory or intolerant to first- and second-line treatments. A stepwise approach to treatment through first-, second-, and third-line therapies is recommended, recognizing this may not be appropriate for all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

To optimize symptom control and set realistic expectations, patients should be carefully monitored and counseled appropriately on available treatment options.

Beyond Antimuscarinics: A Review of Pharmacological and Interventional Options for Overactive Bladder Management in Men

CONTEXT

The role of overactive bladder (OAB) treatment in women beyond antimuscarinics has been evaluated extensively. Beta-3 agonists, botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A), and nerve stimulation are indicated in these patients. However, data on male patients in this clinical scenario are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence on treatment options beyond antimuscarinics in men with OAB.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A search of PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Cochrane Central Database of Systematic Reviews databases was performed for relevant articles published between January 2000 and October 2020, using the following Medical Subject Headings: "male/man," "LUTS," "overactive bladder," "storage symptoms," "urgency," "nocturia," "incontinence," "beta-3 agonist," "PDE-5 inhibitors," "botulinum toxin," "sacral nerve stimulation/neurostimulation," "percutaneous/transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation," "PTENS," and "combination therapy." Evidence acquisition was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PROSPERO registration number is CRD42020201223.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Overall, 24 studies were retrieved. In male OAB, mirabegron (MIRA) is the most intensively investigated pharmacological option. A pooled analysis of five randomized clinical trials (RCTs), including 1187 patients, concluded that MIRA 50 mg was associated with a greater reduction in frequency versus placebo (-0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.74, -0.01, p <  0.05). A pooled analysis of three RCTs, including 1317 male patients, has also shown that the addition of MIRA 50 mg in men receiving the α₁-blocker tamsulosin improved the mean number of micturitions per day (-0.27, 95% CI: -0.46 to -0.09, p <  0.05), urgency episodes (-0.50, 95% CI: -0.77 to -0.22, p <  0.05), total OAB symptom score (-0.66, 95% CI: -1.00 to -0.38, p <  0.05), and mean volume voided (+10.76 ml, 95% CI: 4.87-16.64, p <  0.05). MIRA treatment is well tolerated in men. Other pharmacological treatment options, such as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors, should be considered investigational. BTX-A seems to be effective as third-line treatment in male OAB patients. A higher rate of intermittent self-catheterization (5-42%) is observed in male than in female patients. Data on nerve stimulation are scarce.

CONCLUSIONS

MIRA has the most robust data in terms of safety and efficacy in this patient population. Preliminary data in men suggest that BTX-A is indicated as an interventional treatment. Evidence for PDE-5 inhibitors and nerve stimulation is too limited to provide recommendations. Future studies in this population should aim to better define the best treatment sequence and to identify predictors for treatment response and failure, to determine a therapeutic approach tailored to patients' characteristics.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Overactive bladder is highly prevalent in men. Mirabegron 50 mg is the treatment option supported by the highest level of evidence when antimuscarinics failed. Botulinum toxin A injections seems to be an effective treatment as interventional option. Roles of nerve stimulation and phosphodiesterase inhibitors in male OAB patients are still to be defined.

Overactive bladder medication: Persistence, drug switching, and reinitiation

AIM

To assess real-world treatment profiles, including the time to and reasons for discontinuation or drug switching, treatment reinitiation, and postdiscontinuation follow-up in patients receiving antimuscarinics or ß3-agonists for overactive bladder (OAB) through a retrospective chart review.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical charts of 777 patients, aged ≥18 years, who underwent antimuscarinic or ß3-agonist therapy at our hospital. Data on patient's age, sex, chief complaint, and OAB symptom score at therapy initiation were collected. Treatment persistence was assessed with respect to the median time to discontinuation and the persistence rate at 12 months.

RESULTS

Older patients, male patients, and those with more severe urgency symptoms were more likely to show treatment persistence with OAB medications. Treatment persistence with mirabegron was significantly longer than that with antimuscarinics when administered as either the first- or second-line medication. Multivariate analyses showed that urgency severity and use of mirabegron were independently associated with better persistence (p = .026 and p = .018, respectively). Out of 583 patients who discontinued medication, 344 continued with the visit schedule, and the reinitiation rate of the OAB medication was 19% at a median follow-up of 24 months.

CONCLUSION

Although the persistence rates for OAB medications improved with the introduction of mirabegron, most patients still discontinued the medication therapy within 1 year. The treatment strategies for patients with mild symptoms and those who are resistant to medication can still be improved. Tailored individualized treatments that avoid excessive reliance on pharmacotherapy would be key to further improve treatment outcomes in OAB patients.

Medium-term outcomes of sacral neuromodulation in patients with refractory overactive bladder: A retrospective single-institution study

Background

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a minimally invasive fully reversible therapy that was approved in 1997 for overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) refractory to behavior modification and pharmacotherapy. Despite being in use for over two decades, the data on medium to long-term safety and efficacy of SNM in OAB is limited. We investigated the medium-term efficacy and safety of SNM along with the predictive factors for its success in patients with refractory OAB.

Methods

A retrospective consecutive case series of 66 patients undergoing SNM for refractory OAB between July 2009 and July 2018. All patients underwent a test period followed by permanent implantation, if there was > = 50% improvement in any symptom. The primary outcome was “success” defined as > = 50% improvement in any clinical parameter based on the subjective assessment of patient’s response. The secondary outcomes were number of pads used in 24 hours, post-operative complications and re-operation rates.

Results

66 females with an average age of 62.7 years were included. 55/66 patients (83.3%) had a successful test phase and underwent permanent implantation. After a median follow-up of 32 months, SNM was successful in 41/55 (74.5%) patients. Mean number of pads used in 24 hours decreased significantly from 3.5 preoperatively to 1.2 at last follow-up (p<0.001). 8/55 (14.5%) patients reported complications of pain, lead migration, wound dehiscence and device malfunction. 10/55 (18.2%) patients underwent revision surgeries after a median duration of 21.9 months. Device was explanted in 15/55 (27.3%) patients after a median duration of 24 months. No significant predictor for success was identified.

Conclusions

The success rate of SNM is 75% with a complication rate of 14.5% after a median follow-up of ~3 years. This study suggests medium-term efficacy and safety but a high re-operation rate of SNM in patients with refractory OAB.

Development of a flowchart reflecting the current attitude and approach towards idiopathic overactive bladder treatment in Belgium: A Delphi study

AIMS

Idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome (iOAB) is a prevalent condition in urological practice. The variability in management between specialists and between centers remains high. Even existing guidelines contain inconsistencies. We aimed to develop a treatment algorithm for iOAB for use in daily clinical practice.

METHODS

From October 2018 till November 2019, a Delphi study was conducted to obtain expert consensus on the management of iOAB. Members from the Belgian Working Group of Functional Urology were asked to rate online statements, based on gaps and variabilities between the American Urology Association (AUA), European Association of Urology (EAU) and International Consultation on Incontinence (ICI) guidelines on iOAB. The consensus was reached if ≥75% of the panel agreed on the level of appropriateness. Two Delphi rounds and an open discussion session were held.

RESULTS

Twenty out of 49 members completed the first round and 18 completed the second round. The consensus was reached on 44/143 statements and 15/56 statements in the first and second round, respectively. The consensus was reached on criteria by which to phenotype OAB patients, the terminology relating to the first-, second- and third-line treatment, the duration of therapies, the chronological order, and the choice between therapies. No consensus was reached on the role of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) in the treatment algorithm.

CONCLUSIONS

A flowchart reflecting the current attitude and approach of a Delphi expert panel towards the treatment of iOAB was developed. We propose its use in daily clinical practice to increase the standardization of OAB treatment.

Pharmacology of the lower urinary tract: update on LUTS treatment

The number of compounds used in the pharmacological treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) of patients who do not respond to conservative measures has been relatively stable during the last decade, with the exception of the introduction of the new class of β3 adrenoceptor agonists. However, different combinations have been investigated, and the long-term use of these compounds has raised new concerns about adherence and safety. This review summarizes the current state of pharmacology for LUTS, and presents a thorough discussion of the possible challenges concerning their future use. In this narrative review, we analyze the most recent articles related to LUTS pharmacotherapy, after an initial review of mechanisms of bladder function relevant in present clinical practice. The main problems with pharmacotherapy in LUTS are associated with its moderate efficacy, low persistence on treatment, and the incidence of short- and long-term adverse events (AE) associated with some compounds. The long-term AE, such as cognitive impairment in the elderly vulnerable patients associated with antimuscarinic drugs or persistent erectile dysfunction in sexually active men after treatment with 5-α-reductase inhibitors (5-ARI), are some of the problems addressed in this review. Combination therapy taking advantage of the synergistic mechanisms of action between some classes of compounds may overcome AE associated with dose escalation. LUTS pharmacotherapy offers moderate results to most patients but not a full cure. The use of combination drugs to achieve better clinical results, reduce AE and improve both efficacy and adherence, will be used more frequently in the future. The recently raised concern on potential long-term irreversible AE associated with some of these drugs, like antimuscarinics and 5-ARI, are critically important and require further investigation.

Update on non-invasive treatment for female overactive bladder

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is common chronic medical condition which has a major impact on health and quality of life. This condition affects daily activities, performance and social function and servers as a real challenge for care giver in attempt to treat patients' symptoms. Given the fact that therapy rarely results in cure and the high rate of discontinuation, treatment should primarily aim to reduce social and psychological disability. The purpose of our update is to give an overview of recent data regarding OAB, and to provide practical clinical tools for evaluation and management of OAB syndrome according to current literature evidence.

The Direct and Indirect Costs Associated With Overactive Bladder Within a Commercially-Insured Population in the United States

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the burden associated with overactive bladder (OAB) within a commercially-insured United States (US) population.

METHODS

Adults with OAB identified from the MarketScan databases (2008 to 2013) were propensity score matched 1:1 to non-OAB controls. Per-patient-per-month (PPPM) direct healthcare costs, and indirect costs attributable to workplace absence and short-term disability (STD), were estimated.

RESULTS

Adjusted PPPM healthcare costs were higher for OAB patients than matched controls for both direct costs ($3003 vs $1123; P < 0.0001) and indirect costs due to STD ($114 vs $98; P < 0.05). There was no difference in the indirect costs due to absence between the OAB cases and controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The direct healthcare costs of OAB patients are substantial. Additional research is needed to quantify the impact of OAB on workplace productivity. Improved management of OAB symptoms may reduce costs and enhance patient quality of life.

Safety of Intradetrusor OnabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) Injection in the Asymptomatic Patient With a Positive Urine Dip

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate differences in adverse events (AE) in asymptomatic patients with a positive urine dip (UD) at time of intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) injection vsthose with a defined negative UD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All intradetrusor BTX-A injections were retrospectively reviewed at a single institution between 2016 and 2018. Exclusion criteria included an indwelling catheter, recent positive urine culture, recent antibiotic course, or absence of UD on the day of injection. A positive UD was defined using 7 different definitions with varying combinations of any level of positive blood, leukocyte esterase, or nitrite. Negative UDs were defined those excluded from the positive UD group. We compared multiple positive UD-defined groups to their respective negative UD cohorts with regards to outcomes and demographics.

RESULTS

A total of 212 patients underwent 335 cycles of BTX-A injections over a 2-year period. The average age was 65 years (range: 21-90). The majority received 100 units (73%) of BTX-A for a non-neurogenic diagnosis (73%). The overall rate of AEs, urinary tract infection, and urinary retention was 14.6%, 9%, and 3%, respectively. In all groups, the most common AE was urinary tract infection followed by urinary retention. There were no major Clavien-Dindo-defined complications. There was no statistically significant difference in the total or categorical AE rates between positive and negative UD groups using all 7 definitions of a positive UD (P = .05-1.0).

CONCLUSION

These data do not support the practice of obtaining a preprocedure UD in asymptomatic patients undergoing intradetrusor BTX-A injection for any indication; test results are unable to predict outcomes or AEs.

Anticholinergic Drugs for Overactive Bladder in Frail Older Patients: The Case Against

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common and disabling problem among older people. Anticholinergic drugs (ADs) are a pharmacological option recommended for overactive bladder or mixed UI when non-pharmacological approaches have failed. However, UI is a more prevalent and complex condition in frail older people and to simply assume that AD actions are the same across all age groups would be wrong. This article reviews evidence for the efficacy and safety of these drugs, especially when prescribed for frail older people. Although ADs have a small but statistically significant benefit for UI in non-frail people, the vast majority choose to discontinue treatment because they feel that the beneficial effects do not outweigh the burden of taking the medication. Not only are the most frail older people more likely to experience adverse effects but there is also no evidence that these drugs are effective for UI. In addition, there is a mounting body of evidence that they impair cognitive function. The continued use of ADs in frail older people simply does not hold water.

Oral Pharmacologic Management of Overactive Bladder Syndrome: Where Do We Stand?

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) is a prevalent disorder with a significant impact on quality of life. Despite this high prevalence, there is significant underdiagnosis and undertreatment due to several barriers, including embarrassment, poor communication and low patient adherence. Currently, various antimuscarinic are available in the treatment of OAB. The introduction of mirabegron has broadened the therapeutic approach and combination therapy of both agents can be valuable in clinical practice. Yet, patient adherence to most drugs for OAB is still relatively poor. Healthcare providers need to identify and utilise strategies to improve treatment adherence by defining clear treatment goals, implement educational methods and frequently communicate with patients to identify problems with adherence. The elderly population form need special attention as in these patients, anticholinergics should be prescribed with care and adequate knowledge regarding pharmacokinetics and drug interactions in essential. Furthermore, patient expectations should be clearly discussed. In this narrative review, the current advances in oral pharmacotherapy are evaluated and the most important factors involved in the management of OAB are discussed.

Comparative efficacy and tolerability of solifenacin 5 mg/day versus other oral antimuscarinic agents in overactive bladder: A systematic literature review and network meta-analysis

AIMS

To compare efficacy and tolerability of solifenacin 5 mg/day versus other oral antimuscarinic agents for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB).

METHODS

Literature searches of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were undertaken to identify randomized controlled trials in OAB (2000-2015) for antimuscarinic agents. A network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed to estimate efficacy and tolerability outcomes for solifenacin 5 mg/day relative to other antimuscarinics.

RESULTS

The NMA included 53 eligible trials (published, n = 48; unpublished on search date, n = 5). Solifenacin 5 mg/day was significantly more effective than tolterodine 4 mg/day for reducing incontinence and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) episodes, but significantly less effective than solifenacin 10 mg/day for micturition; no other statistically significant differences were noted for efficacy. Solifenacin 5 mg/day had a statistically significant lower risk of dry mouth compared with darifenacin 15 mg/day, fesoterodine 8 mg/day, oxybutynin extended-release 10 mg/day, oxybutynin immediate-release (IR) 9-15 mg/day, tolterodine IR 4 mg/day, propiverine 20 mg/day, and solifenacin 10 mg/day. There were no significant differences between solifenacin 5 mg/day and other antimuscarinics for risk of blurred vision, or for 11 of 17 active comparators for risk of constipation.

CONCLUSIONS

This NMA suggests that the efficacy of solifenacin 5 mg/day is at least similar to other common antimuscarinics across the spectrum of OAB symptoms analyzed, and is more effective than tolterodine 4 mg/day in reducing incontinence and UUI episodes. Solifenacin 5 mg/day has a lower risk of dry mouth compared with several agents.

Patient-reported outcomes from SYNERGY, a randomized, double-blind, multicenter study evaluating combinations of mirabegron and solifenacin compared with monotherapy and placebo in OAB patients

AIMS

To evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of combinations of solifenacin and mirabegron compared with solifenacin and mirabegron monotherapy and with placebo in patients with overactive bladder (OAB) from the SYNERGY trial.

METHODS

Following a 4-week placebo run-in, period patients (≥18 years) with OAB were randomized 2:2:1:1:1:1 to receive solifenacin 5 mg + mirabegron 25 mg (combination 5 + 25 mg), solifenacin 5 mg + mirabegron 50 mg, (combination 5 + 50 mg), solifenacin 5 mg, mirabegron 25 mg, mirabegron 50 mg or placebo for 12 weeks, followed by a 2-week washout period. At each visit, PROs related to quality of life, symptom bother, and treatment satisfaction were assessed, including OAB-q Symptom Bother score, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) Total score, treatment satisfaction-visual analogue scale (TS-VAS), and patient perception of bladder condition (PPBC) questionnaires.

RESULTS

Overall, 3527 patients were randomized into the study, with 3494 receiving double-blind treatment. At end of treatment (EoT), both combination groups showed greater improvements in OAB-q Symptom Bother score compared with the monotherapy groups (nominal P < 0.001). Statistically significant improvements in HRQOL Total scores were observed in the combination groups versus monotherapy groups (P ≤ 0.002). For both combination groups, the OAB-q Symptom Bother score responder rates at EoT were statistically significantly higher versus mirabegron monotherapy (P < 0.05). The mean adjusted changes from baseline to EoT for PPBC were greater in the combination groups compared with monotherapy groups.

CONCLUSIONS

PROs showed that combination therapy provided clear improvements and an additive effect for many HRQOL parameters, including OAB-q Symptom Bother score, HRQOL Total score, and PPBC.