Solifenacin succinate

Brand names: VESIcare

Why is Solifenacin succinate prescribed?

VESIcare is prescribed for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB). People with overactive bladder experience a strong and urgent need to urinate (urgency), a need to urinate more often than normal (frequency), or involuntary urine leakage (incontinence).

In OAB, the muscle in the bladder wall spasms, causing a need to urinate even when the bladder is not full. It can also result in accidental urination. VESIcare relaxes the muscle in the bladder wall, reducing spasms and restoring more normal bladder function.

Most important fact about Solifenacin succinate

VESIcare can cause blurred vision. You must use caution when driving, operating machinery, or engaging in hazardous activities when taking Solifenacin succinate to prevent injury to yourself and others.

How should you take Solifenacin succinate?

Take VESIcare exactly as prescribed by your doctor, with a full glass of water at about the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, split, or chew.

• If you miss a dose...Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using VESIcare.

• Side effects may include:Blurred vision, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, upset stomach, urinary tract infection

Why should Solifenacin succinate not be prescribed?

You should not take VESIcare if:

• You are unable to empty your bladder (urinary blockage or urinary retention).
• You have delayed or slow emptying of your stomach (also called gastric retention).
• You have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma (high pressure inside the eye).

Special warnings about Solifenacin succinate

VESIcare must be used with caution if you have trouble emptying your bladder. Before taking Solifenacin succinate, make sure the doctor knows if you have liver or kidney disease, stomach or intestinal problems, severe constipation, eyes problems such as glaucoma, or a heart condition called prolonged QT interval. VESIcare may make these conditions worse.

VESIcare can also make intestinal problems or constipation worse. Contact your doctor if you are constipated for 3 or more days or if you develop severe abdominal pain.

Drink plenty of fluids and stay well hydrated during hot weather while taking Solifenacin succinate, since it can reduce your ability to sweat and contribute to the risk of heat exhaustion.

VESIcare can cause dry mouth. For temporary relief, try sucking on hard candy or chewing gum.

VESIcare has not been studied in children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Solifenacin succinate

When VESIcare is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either drug could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining VESIcare with any of the following:

AtazanavirIndinavirItraconazoleKetoconazoleNelfinavirRitonavirSaquinavirVoriconazole

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of taking VESIcare during pregnancy have not been studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

It is not known if VESIcare appears in breast milk; talk to your doctor if you plan on breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Solifenacin succinate

ADULTS

The usual starting dose of VESIcare is 5 mg once a day. Depending on your response, your doctor may increase the dose to 10 mg.

If you have severe kidney problems or moderate liver dysfunction, the maximum recommended dose is 5 mg a day. Using VESIcare is not recommended if you have severe liver dysfunction.

If you take antifungal or antiviral drugs, your dosage should not exceed 5 mg a day. Make sure the doctor is aware of all other medicines you take before beginning treatment with VESIcare.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency treatment immediately.

• Symptoms of overdose may include:Confusion; dry, hot, or flushed skin; enlarged pupils; extremely high blood pressure; fast heartbeat; hallucinations; inability to urinate; nausea; seizures; tremor; vomiting; and possibly coma