FESOTERODINE FUMARATE
Background and Date of Approval
Fesoterodine fumarate received FDA approval on October 31, 2008 for the management of overactive bladder symptoms. Fesoterodine fumarate is an antimuscarinic agent.
Uses
Fesoterodine fumarate treats symptoms associated with an overactive bladder, such as urgency incontinence (inability to control bladder emptying), sudden urination urges, and increased urinary frequency.
How is it administered?
Take the Fesoterodine fumarate as your physician advises. Usually, the tablets will be taken with or without food. 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.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Fesoterodine fumarate are difficulty in sleeping, dry eyes, throat, dizziness, dysuria (painful or difficult urination), constipation, drowsiness, nausea, and headache. Serious side effects while taking Fesoterodine fumarate are angioedema ( swelling of the face, mouth, or throat).
Warnings
Fesoterodine fumarate should not be taken if you have allergies to Fesoterodine or Fructose, inability to empty your bladder (urinary retention), slow stomach emptying (gastric retention), narrow-angle glaucoma, excessive muscle weakness, severe ulcerative colitis, abnormally large colon. It is not advised to consume this medicine if you have if you are taking specific medications for HIV, depression, and fungal or bacterial infections. Don't consume this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant or breastfeeding. Before taking Fesoterodine fumarate, Notify your doctor if you have any heart conditions such as abnormal ECG (QT prolongation) or taking medications that may cause it, slow heart rate (bradycardia), myocardial ischemia, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood).
Precautions
Before taking Fesoterodine fumarate, it is important to consult with your doctor if you have difficulty emptying your bladder, decreased bowel movements or severe constipation, narrow-angle glaucoma, serious kidney or liver problems, autonomic neuropathy, a gastrointestinal disease affecting food passage or digestion, heartburn, belching, or urinary tract infection. Your doctor may adjust your dose or prescribe additional medications based on your situation.
Word of Advice
Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not freeze the medicine. Do not store above 25°C. Always check the expiry date before use. Patients with liver, heart, or kidney disease should use Fesoterodine fumarate with caution and inform their doctor of all underlying medical conditions. Do not discontinue the medicine without your doctor's advice. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. Do not breastfeed whilst taking Fesoterodine fumarate unless your doctor advises otherwise. Inform your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Your doctor will advise if any dose adjustments are necessary. Consult your doctor for further information.
References
Laboratorios Normon, S.A., Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on February 2022] [Accessed on 5th June 2023], *Microsoft Word - PL-Fesoterodine-clean (medicines.org.uk) Pfizer, US Food and Drug Administration; [Revised on April 2008] [Accessed on 5th June 2023], label (fda.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fesoterodine used for?
Fesoterodine treats overactive bladder symptoms like urgency, frequency, and urge incontinence by relaxing bladder muscles for better control of urination.
How to manage the side effects of Fesoterodine fumarate?
To manage the side effects of Fesoterodine fumarate, follow your doctor's instructions, stay hydrated, and monitor any changes. Report severe side effects to your doctor and inform them about other medications or conditions. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and consult your doctor for personalized guidance.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Fesoterodine fumarate?
If you miss a capsule dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose of the Fesoterodine fumarate.
What are the side effects of Fesoterodine fumarate?
Common side effects of Fesoterodine fumarate include difficulty sleeping, dry eyes, throat, dizziness, dysuria (painful or difficult urination), constipation, drowsiness, nausea, and headache. It is mandatory to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.
Can you take Fesoterodine fumarate when pregnant?
It is unsafe to consume this medicine while pregnant. Consult your medical professional regarding the use of Fesoterodine fumarate during pregnancy. The potential benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Your doctor will suggest taking this medicine only if it's necessary.