by Dr Pandula Siribaddana

Created on: September 29, 2010

What is ‘Vesicare’?

VESIcare is a trade name used to describe the medication solifenacin succinate which is a muscarinic receptor antagonist. What this means is that, the drug would antagonize the muscarinic activities of certain parts of the body and in particularly the drugs actions would be seen in relation to the bladder and the urinary tract. In relation to these organs, Vesicare would be able to reduce the hyperactivity of the smooth muscles and therefore the spasms that take place in these organs. Such action would be beneficial in instances of overactive bladder and in urinary incontinence.

When should it be not used or used with precautions?

Persons who are allergic to this medications should not use it and a person needs to divulge the presence of liver disease, kidney disease, conditions with delayed gastric emptying, any obstructions in the bowels…etc and furthermore, persons with narrowed angle glaucoma should abstain from taking this medication to avoid aggravating the existing condition.

What are the possible side effects of Vesicare?

As with many of the other drugs, Vesicare can also give rise to allergic reactions and therefore manifestations such as itching of the skin, swelling of the lips, face, tongue and the throat, appearance of hives and breathing difficulties should be taken in seriously and urgent medical attention should be given.

Apart from the allergic reactions, some of the other serious side effects include, excessive thirst, drying of the skin, pain in the stomach which sometimes can be rather severe along with bowels not opening for more than 3 days, uncomfortable feeling while passing urine including burning and pain or even passing relatively less amount of urine even after drinking adequate amounts of fluids and would necessitate withdrawal of the drug and obtaining medical advice as early as possible to avoid further complications.

Other than the serious side effects, less serious side effects can also be present as relatively common side effects and these would include, dry mouth, dry eyes, blurring of vision, nausea, mild constipation, stomach ache as well as flu like symptoms including body aches, fever, sore throat…etc. In certain instances, these patients can also complain of mild dizziness or a feeling of tiredness as well. But, most of these manifestations are transient and could disappear with continued use of Vesicare. But, in case these symptoms are persisting, one should not leave it un-attended and swift measures are needed in getting rid of these symptoms which might require dose alteration or going for an alternative treatment.

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