Antimuscarinics for neurogenic overactive bladder in multiple sclerosis: real-life data

BACKGROUND: Antimuscarinics (AMs) represent the mainstay of treatment for storage lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) but few data are available on their impact in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. OBJECTIVE: To assess effectiveness and tolerability of AMs in MS patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). METHODS: Sixty consecutive outpatients, who started treatment with AMs at one centre, were recruited. The primary endpoint was change in Patient’s Perception of Intensity of Urgency Scale (PPIUS) at 6 months; secondary endpoints were post-void residual urine (PVR) and pads used daily. Incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs) were recorded. RESULTS: Significant reduction (p < 0.001) of mean PPIUS and pads use were detected, as well as a significant increase (p < 0.001) of PVR (143 ± 42 ml). AEs, recorded in 53% of patients, were frequently multiple and caused suspension of AM in 10% of cases, mainly for xerostomia, which has been the commonest AE (26.6%). Neurological AEs appeared in 11.7% of subjects, mostly with oxybutynin. Worsening/onset of voiding LUTS, reported by 8.3% of MS, resulted to be the unique AE correlated to AM dosage. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that AMs are effective in MS patients, but their use should be tailored on every patient as even low dosages can be poorly tolerated. AEs, including neurological ones, are common.