Botox is a medicine made from a toxin produced by bacteria, called botulinum toxin. It is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including bladder problems. When injected into the bladder, it can help reduce symptoms of an overactive bladder, such as urinary incontinence and urgency. The main side effect associated with injecting Botox into the bladder is an increase in post-voiding residue, or the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination.
In most cases, this does not cause any symptoms and does not need treatment. However, in some patients (about 6% in clinical trials) it may be a problem and may require temporary use of a catheter to help empty the bladder. Other side effects include bleeding in the urine or a urinary tract infection. The good news is that most people get relief from symptoms quickly, in just a few days.
The results of treatment last about six months, and you may receive additional injections. Early case studies indicate that Botox can improve all symptoms of an overactive bladder. Overall, a person can expect a 60 percent reduction in leakage rate, a 50 percent reduction in urgency, and a 70 percent improvement or success rate. In terms of identifying patients who are good candidates for Botox injections, it is suitable for older adults. Depending on the specific patient, between 100 and 300 units of botulinum toxin is reconstituted in 20 cc of sterile saline and injected into the detrusor muscle just below the level of the bladder mucosa.
In addition to causing partial paralysis of the bladder muscle, Botox also targets the nerves that control the feeling of urgency. First-line treatment for OAV usually involves behavioral modifications or simply educating patients to be more strategic about their fluid intake habits. Your doctor will determine the dose of Botox based on your condition and the response to previous Botox treatments. Compared to oral medications, botox has several attractions for patients, according to Elliott. Botox for urinary incontinence is often recommended when conservative treatments do not stop involuntary loss of urine or overactive bladder. It is a “life changer” for tens of thousands of Australians suffering from overactive bladder conditions.
The challenge is investigating medium- and long-term outcomes in a randomized controlled trial setting. In conclusion, Botox injections are an effective treatment for overactive bladder and urinary incontinence. It can reduce leakage rate by 60%, reduce urgency by 50%, and improve success rate by 70%. It is suitable for older adults and has several attractions compared to oral medications. However, significant side effects may limit its tolerability for many patients.
