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)
RELATED: Stress Urinary Incontinence: What Are Your Surgery Options?
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