Incontinence, or loss of bladder control, is a common condition that affects many people, especially older adults. It can impact daily activities and overall quality of life. While many factors contribute to incontinence, one less talked about factor is medications.

Yes, certain medications can cause or even worsen symptoms of incontinence. But don’t worry if you or someone you care for is facing this issue; there are steps you can take to manage and improve it. First, we can start by understanding incontinence. Then, we will discuss a few medications that can be responsible for it and how to manage it.

Understanding Incontinence

It’s important to understand that incontinence comes in several forms. This includes stress incontinence (when coughing, sneezing, or exercising causes leakage) and urge incontinence (sudden and intense urge to urinate). Some people may experience a mix of both. While it can be a part of aging, it’s not something you have to live with without seeking help.

Medications That May Cause Incontinence

Several types of medications can contribute to incontinence by interfering with the normal way your bladder and urethra control urination. Here are some common culprits:

1. Diuretics

Often called “water pills”, diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure by helping the body get rid of extra salt and water through your urine. This can raise the amount of urine your body makes, sometimes leading to incontinence.

Examples: Lasix (furosemide), HydroDiuril (hydrochlorothiazide), Aldactone (spironolactone)

2. Alpha-blockers

This group of medications is used to treat blood pressure but can also be used to treat prostate issues in men. Alpha-blockers relax the bladder muscles and part of the prostate. The result is it makes it easier to urinate, which can cause symptoms of incontinence.

Examples: Flomax (tamsulosin), Proscar (finasteride), Catapres (clonidine)

3. Sedatives and muscle relaxants

Medications that relax the muscles or make you drowsy — including sedatives and muscle relaxers — can also cause incontinence. These types of medicines can lower your awareness of the need to urinate. They might also weaken the muscles that control urination.

Examples: Valium (diazepam), Ambien (zolpidem), Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine)

4. Antidepressants

Some antidepressants interfere with the body’s ability to recognize when your bladder is full. Others can inhibit the signals that trigger urination, leading to difficult bladder control.

Examples: Elavil (amitriptyline), Zoloft (sertraline), Lexapro (escitalopram)

5. Medications for Overactive Bladder

Ironically, some medications used to treat overactive bladder can cause urinary retention. This can lead to overflow incontinence, where the bladder doesn’t empty all the way, causing leaks.

Examples: Myrbetriq (mirabegron), Detrol (tolterodine), Ditropan (oxybutynin)

What Can You Do?

If you or someone you care for experiences incontinence and takes any of these medications, here are a few steps you can take:

Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

Do not stop taking any medication without first talking with your healthcare provider. Ask your pharmacist to review your medications to see if any might be contributing to incontinence. Contact your doctor, they may adjust your medication dosage or switch you to a different medicine that doesn’t affect your bladder.

Manage Fluid Intake

While staying hydrated is important, try to control your fluid intake. Avoiding a large drink, especially before bedtime, can help you manage incontinence. Limit certain beverages like caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate your bladder.

Bladder Training

Bladder training involves urinating at set times during the day. Slowly, over time, try to increase your potty breaks. This helps to strengthen bladder muscles and improve your bladder control.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Also known as Kegel exercises, strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help control urination. Different types of exercises can help, try focusing on consistency to see changes long-term.

Use Protective Products

Using protective pads or undergarments can help manage leaks and reduce embarrassment. Take time to explore different products to find ones you like that fit your needs.

The Takeaway

Incontinence caused by medication use can be a challenging issue, but it's not impossible to live with. With the right approach and open communication with your provider, you can find ways to manage this condition. Remember that incontinence is a medical issue. It is not a personal failure, and seeking help is a big step toward better health and quality of life.

By Taylor K. Clarke | Published April 1, 2024