Botox Bladder Injections

Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder is a condition that affects roughly 33 million Americans, both men and women, occurring when the bladder squeezes too often or without any warning at all. With symptoms like leaking urine, frequent urination and feeling the sudden urge to urinate, the treatment of overactive bladder is something that patients seek almost immediately, due to the severe discomfort alone.

Anticholinergic

Typically, anticholinergic, a medication class that assists in the blocking of involuntary muscle movements, is used to treat the common condition. However, a majority of patients who receive them don’t respond well to the drug type , leaving their overactive bladder symptoms persistent and without relief. For these patients especially, we recommended Botox bladder injections,  an FDA-approved method that continues to produce successful results.  

Botox Bladder Injection Procedure

During the Botox bladder injection procedure, a surgeon cystoscopy is used to inject the bladder with Botox. This allows the doctor to see the inside of the bladder as the injection is taking place. The concept behind the procedure is simple and effective: When Botox is injected into the muscle of the bladder, the bladder reacts by relaxing – which ultimately increases its storage, while reducing its frequent urinary incontinence.

Recent case studies prove the growing success rate of Botox bladder injections. From a 2015 study in particular, nine out of ten patients who received the procedure less than two times per year (over a four-year period) reported a 50 percent or higher decrease of daily incontinence episodes.

There are a few note-worthy things that patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure:

• One should not receive Botox bladder injections if they have a urinary tract infection at the time they wish to receive the procedure.
• Patients should take antibiotics before, during and a few days after their treatment, to decrease their chance of developing infection.

Additionally, side effects and possible complications include urinary tract infections, urinary retention and pain while urinating.

A patient can repeat their Botox bladder injection procedure once their symptoms begin to come back again, with a recommended period of at least 12 weeks between treatments.

Our skilled physicians at Somerset Urological Associates are happy to present the option of Botox bladder injections to assist patients who experience symptoms of an overactive bladder. To schedule an appointment, you can reach us at 908-927-0300. We’re conveniently located at 72 West End Avenue Somerville, NJ 08876, with services in New Brunswick and Middlesex.