SOLIFENACIN SUCCINATE
Background and Date of Approval
Solifenacin succinate is an antispasmodic for urinary symptoms, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on 19 November 2004 for management of overactive bladder symptoms.
Uses
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.
How is it administered?
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.
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.
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.
Word of Advice
Blurred vision is a common side effect of solifenacin succinate and may occur in many patients taking this medication. Should you experience blurred vision or other visual changes during solifenacin succinate treatment, inform your doctor. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, assess their severity, and determine the appropriate management approach. Dose adjustment or discontinuation of the medication may be required. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience tiredness or weakness during treatment.
References
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 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 Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Muscarinic receptor agonists and antagonists, 12th edition, 2011, 231. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticholinergic drugs, and drugs acting on autonomic ganglia, 7th edition, 2013, 119.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions are treated with Solifenacin succinate?
Solifenacin succinate is primarily used to treat overactive bladder syndrome, including frequent urination, urgency, and urge incontinence (involuntary urine leakage). It can help control these symptoms and improve quality of life.
Can Solifenacin succinate be used in children?
Solifenacin succinate is generally not recommended for use in children and adolescents under the age of 18. The safety and effectiveness of this medication in pediatric populations have yet to be well established.
Is it safe to drive while taking Solifenacin succinate?
Solifenacin succinate may cause dizziness, and blurred vision, which could impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should be cautious when engaging in activities that impair mental alertness until they know how the medication affects them.
Does Solifenacin succinate stop bladder spasms?
Yes, this drug is known to reduce or stop bladder spasms. It works by blocking the action of certain receptors in the bladder called muscarinic receptors. These receptors are responsible for muscle contractions in the bladder. Solifenacin succinate helps to relax the bladder muscles and reduce bladder spasms by inhibiting these receptors.
Can I take Solifenacin succinate if I have lactose intolerance?
Solifenacin succinate tablets contain lactose, and if you have a known intolerance to galactose or lactose, it is important to inform your physician. They can evaluate your specific situation and determine whether it is safe for you to take this drug.