This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Solifenacin succinate is an urinary antispasmodic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved on 19 Nov 2004, for treating the symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB).

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Solifenacin succinate works by blocking the action of a specific type of receptor called muscarinic receptor in the bladder. By blocking these receptors, this drug helps to relax the bladder muscles, reduce bladder contractions, and increase the bladder's capacity to hold urine.

Uses of undefined

Solifenacin succinate helps to treat the symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). It is a medical condition caused by a sudden, frequent, and uncontrollable urge to urinate, often accompanied by urinary frequency (urinating more often than usual) and urinary urgency (a strong and immediate need to urinate). Individuals with OAB may experience these symptoms even when the bladder is not full, leading to a sense of urgency that can be difficult to control.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Solifenacin succinate is a prescription medicine available as a tablet in two doses, Solifenacin succinate 5mg and Solifenacin succinate 10mg. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

This drug is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to it or its component. Solifenacin succinate may worsen urinary retention (inability to empty the bladder). It should be used with caution in these individuals, and discontinuation of treatment should be considered if urinary retention occurs. Inform your physician of any kidney or liver disease. Your physician may prescribe you a low dose and perform regular blood tests.

Precautions

It is generally recommended to avoid using Solifenacin succinate during pregnancy unless it is necessary. Taking this drug while breastfeeding is unsafe because it may affect the child. Do not breastfeed while taking this medicine. This tablet does contain lactose, and if you have been diagnosed with a rare hereditary problem of galactose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or Lapp lactase deficiency, it is advised not to use this medication.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Solifenacin succinate are dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, fullness, heartburn and burping. Some serious side effects also include blistering and peeling of the skin, angioedema (swelling occurs in the tissue just below the surface of the skin), and difficulty in breathing.

Word Of Advice

Blurred vision is listed as a common side effect of this medication, which may affect many individuals who take it. If you experience blurred vision or any visual changes while taking Solifenacin succinate, it is important to inform your physician. They can evaluate your symptoms, assess their severity, and determine the best course of action. Adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the medication may be necessary. Avoid driving and lifting heavy machinery if you feel tired or weak during this treatment. 

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Astellas Pharma Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2022] [ Accessed on 20th June 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5559.pdf
  2. GlaxoSmithKline, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on April 2010] [ Accessed on 20th June 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/021518s008lbl.pdf
  3. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Muscarinic receptor agonists and antagonists, 12th edition, 2011, 231.
  4. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticholinergic drugs, and drugs acting on autonomic ganglia, 7th edition, 2013, 119.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.