Indications
Vesicare (active ingredient: solifenacin) is a prescription medication indicated for:
- Overactive Bladder: Vesicare is used for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary frequency, urgency, and urge incontinence.
Vesicare belongs to a class of drugs known as antimuscarinic agents, which work by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine on specific receptors in the bladder muscle, thereby reducing bladder muscle contractions and improving bladder control.
Uses and Dosage
To take Solifenacin, swallow the tablet whole with water or another liquid. Do not split, chew, or crush the tablets. It is usually taken orally once a day with or without food, at around the same time every day.
Follow the prescription label's directions carefully and ask a doctor or pharmacist to explain any part that is unclear. Take Solifenacin exactly as directed, without taking more or less than prescribed or taking it more frequently than instructed. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of Solifenacin and increase it as treatment continues.
The recommended dosage for Solifenacin is 5mg taken orally once a day with or without food. If the 5mg dose is well-tolerated, the dose may be increased to 10mg once a day. In patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B), the dose should not exceed 5mg once daily, whereas it is not recommended for patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C). Doses greater than 5mg are not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (CLcr less than 30 mL/min).
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Vesicare (Solifenacin Succinate):
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Stomach upset
- Decreased sweating
- Feeling hot
- Temporary blurred vision
Serious Side Effects of Vesicare (Solifenacin Succinate):
- Signs of kidney problem (change in urine output, blood in the urine, fever)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent constipation (>3 days)
- Dysuria
- Eye pain
- Vision changes
Form and Strength
Vesicare (Solifenacin Succinate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Vesicare: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Solifenacin Succinate: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Caution
- Vesicare may not be safe for everyone to take, particularly those with certain medical conditions such as glaucoma, liver disease, or urinary retention.
- You should not use this medicine if you have untreated or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines), or if you are unable to urinate.
- You should know that solifenacin may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Vesicare may interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antifungal medicines, and medicines used to treat heart disease.
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to solifenacin, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in solifenacin tablets or oral suspension. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- Vesicare can make it harder for the body to cool down when it gets very hot. Patients should avoid exposure to extreme heat and call their doctor or seek emergency medical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Vesicare interact with other medications?
Yes, Vesicare can interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antifungal medicines, and medicines used to treat heart disease.
Is Vesicare safe for everyone to take?
Vesicare may not be safe for everyone to take, particularly those with certain medical conditions such as glaucoma, liver disease, or urinary retention.
Can Vesicare be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
There is no adequate research on the safety of Vesicare during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking Vesicare during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with a healthcare provider.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Vesicare?
If you miss a dose of Vesicare, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses of Vesicare at the same time.
How long does it take for Vesicare to start working?
The time it takes for Vesicare to start working varies from person to person. Some people may notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few days, while others may take several weeks.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/vesicare.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/021518s016lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=9acee910-cdb2-4052-b8b3-c26aff1c8716
- https://www.astellas.com/us/system/files/254285-ves_pi_26may2020_0.pdf
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605019.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-92266/vesicare-oral/details
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