Re: Neurogenic Bladder

Posted By HFHS M.D.-AK on January 27, 1999 at 16:27:17:

In Reply to: Neurogenic Bladder posted by nds on January 21, 1999 at 17:42:32:






Hello, I have a neurogenic bladder which was confirmed by urodynamics several years ago. I have been taking Levsin SL to help with bladder spasms, but I urinate up to 20 times per day.  My question regards a new drug being prescribed for frequent urination.  I'm sorry I don't know the name of the drug, but I'm wondering if it is recommended for people with neurogenic bladders.  I also have secondary hyperparathyroidism which can contribute to the frequent urination so I wonder if taking a drug to decrease the number of trips to the toilet could cause problems with that condition?  Thanks so much for your time to answer these questions.  nds




Dear nds ,
A neurogenic bladder can mean many things.  This term simply means that you have bladder dysfunction that is of neurologic origin.  What I think you have is a specific type of neurogenic bladder that has uninhibited contractions causing frequent urination.  The medication Levsin helps reduce the bladders ability to contract and by that action is supposed to reduce your bladders uninhibited contractions.  In theory, if you decrease the bladder spasms, the bladder can hold more fluid, thus decreasing you trips to the bathroom.  There are a number of medications similar to Levsin, some that have been around for years.  The names of these medications are: Ditropan, Levsinex, Detrol, Probanthine.  There is another compound called Imipramine, which is a medication used for depressed individuals,  this medication in low doses also can help prevent bladder spasm.  The most recent drug that I know of is the Detrol, which they advertise on TV for overactive bladders.
I dont think there is a problem with taking any of these medications, however your disease process, what is causing the neurogenic bladder, needs to be determined before you start switching or adding medications.  I think you should talk to your urologist first before changing anything.
I do not see a relationship between your hyperparathyroidism and your voiding or these medications.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.  More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword:Neurogenic Bladder