New Treatment Option for Overactive Bladder
February 13th, 2009
Physicians will soon have a new treatment option to offer patients with overactive bladder (OAB). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new topical gel designed to treat the symptoms of OAB Jan. 27.
The first of its kind, Gelnique is an antispasmodic agent currently available in oral tablet and patch form. In gel form, the active ingredient (oxybutynin chloride) isn’t metabolized by the liver, lessening side effects. Patients simply apply the gel to the thigh, abdomen, upper-arm, or shoulder area.
OAB is characterized by a sudden, uncomfortable need to urinate with or without urge incontinence (urine leakage), and usually includes more frequent urination and nocturia. It affects as many as 33 million adults in the United States, according to Watson Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Gelnique.
Gelnique (10 percent strength) will be available by prescription mid-year.
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