Although efficacious, anticholinergic agents cause frequent adverse effects, such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and drowsiness. These effects are dose-related and can severely limit tolerability, especially in elderly patients. Anticholinergics may also cause confusion, especially in elderly patients with preexisting dementia.
Various attempts have been made to improve the organ selectivity of these drugs to overcome their adverse effects. These include the development of new antimuscarinic agents with structural modifications and the use of innovative drug-delivery methods. The benefits of improved drug-delivery systems extend to the long-term therapeutic efficacy, with improved tolerability and patient compliance.
Nasopharyngitis, urinary tract infection, and headache are commonly reported side effects of the beta-3 adrenoreceptor agonists.
Learn more about anticholinergic agents in the management of OAB.
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Cite this: Bradley Schwartz. Fast Five Quiz: Overactive Bladder Pharmacologic Management - Medscape - Feb 26, 2021.
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