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If self-management and lifestyle changes aren’t enough to help you with your OAB symptoms, your doctor may recommend medicine as part of your treatment. This can help reduce the urge to urinate, cut down on toilet trips, and stop leakage.
There are several types of medicines that can help with overactive bladder symptoms. Your doctor will talk with you about the different medicines available and their side effects, so you can decide together which one might work best for you.
Medicines for overactive bladder are of two types:
- Antimuscarinics – A group of different drugs.
- Beta-3 agonists – Like mirabegron.
The medicines you’re offered will depend on things like your age, symptoms, medical history, any other medicines you're taking, what’s available in your area, and your personal preferences.
If you're taking other medicines, your doctor might change them to make sure they work well with your OAB treatment. One benefit of medication is that if it doesn’t work for you, you can stop and try something else.
This chapter contains general information about the treatment of OAB. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.
Last updated: August 2025
Reviewed by:
- Dr. Cyrille Guillot-Tantay (YAU Working Group on Functional Urology)
- Mr. Tomasz Michalek (Patient Office EPAG)