Neurogenic Bladder: Bladder Urethra


Drug therapy for an uncoordinated bladder and urethra. Scientists have not yet found a drug that works selectively on the urethral sphincter muscle, but drugs used to reduce muscle spasms or tremors are sometimes used to help the sphincter relax. Baclofen (Lioresal) is prescribed for muscle spasms or cramping in patients with multiple sclerosis and spinal injuries. Diazepam (Valium) can be taken as a muscle relaxant or to reduce anxiety. Drugs called alpha-adrenergic blockers can also be used to relax the sphincter. Examples of these drugs are alfuzosin (UroXatral), tamsulosin (Flomax), terazosin (Hytrin), and doxazosin (Cardura). The main side effects are low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, or nasal congestion. All of these drugs have been used to relax the urethral sphincter in patients where the sphincter does not relax well.


Adapted and excerpted from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health


Reviewed by Francine Kaufman, MD. 01/09

Last Modified Date: May 28, 2013


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