Botox for overactive bladder is often an effective treatment

One of the most effective, FDA-approved uses of Botox (onabotulinum toxin Type A) is treating overactive bladder. Our North Austin urologists may recommend Botox for overactive bladder when other treatments have not controlled symptoms of leaking urine, urgency and frequent urination.

Overactive bladder is caused by involuntary contractions of the muscles in the bladder wall. Its symptoms are frustrating.

• Sudden urge to urinate that is hard to control
• Frequent urination (more than eight times during the day or two times at night)
• Leaking urine when you feel the need to urinate

Treating overactive bladder

If you’ve been diagnosed with overactive bladder, our North Austin urologists will discuss a variety of treatment options that may help you get the problem under control.

• Pelvic floor therapy
• Medication (oral or skin patch)
• Lifestyle changes (improve diet, lose weight, stop smoking)
• Bladder training
• Botox for overactive bladder

Medications used to manage overactive bladder relax the muscles and nerves around the bladder, decreasing contractions in the bladder that create the urgent need to urinate. This allows the bladder to hold more urine and gives patients additional time to get to the restroom. Medication options include oral or patch forms.

Your urologist may recommend pelvic floor therapy, lifestyle changes, or bladder training to address your overactive bladder. These treatments do not involve medication and can be done with an outside therapist or at home. Generally, all three are useful and can improve a patient’s health and quality of life. They may be used in conjunction with medications or Botox.

Although considered effective, Botox for overactive bladder is typically used after other treatment options have not proven beneficial for a patient.

How is Botox for overactive bladder injected?

The brief procedure is done in the urologist’s office. The doctor will insert a thin lighted tube, called a cystoscope, into the urethra. The tube also has a tiny camera that allows the doctor to see the bladder and urethra. A small needle, also on the end of the cystoscope, injects the Botox.

The procedure does not require general anesthesia, so after a brief observation period, patients can go home the same day and can drive themselves home.

The Botox can take up to two weeks to reach full efficacy, and it typically lasts about six months. The treatment will need to be repeated on average every six months for continued benefit. The duration of effectiveness will vary by person.

You don’t have to live with overactive bladder and leaking urine. If you think you are experiencing overactive bladder or other urinary problems, contact us for an appointment. Our North Austin urologists can review your symptoms with you and discuss potential treatments, including Botox for overactive bladder.