Related Experiment Videos
Serotonergic antidepressants and urinary incontinence.
N A Votolato1, S Stern, R M Caputo
1Department of Psychiatry and Pharmacy, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210, USA.
International Urogynecology Journal and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
|January 9, 2001
Summary
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other serotonergic antidepressants may cause urinary incontinence. This rare side effect, potentially linked to 5HT4 receptors, requires further investigation for treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Urology
Background:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other serotonergic antidepressants are widely prescribed.
- Urinary incontinence is a listed potential side effect, but underreported in medical literature.
Observation:
- Two female patients developed urinary incontinence while taking paroxetine and sertraline.
- A third female patient experienced incontinence while on venlafaxine.
- Two patients were concurrently using lithium carbonate and beta-blockers, which may have contributed.
Findings:
- This study reports three cases of urinary incontinence associated with SSRIs and venlafaxine in female patients.
- Animal studies suggest a potential mechanism involving 5HT4 receptors in the bladder.
Implications:
- The findings highlight a potentially underrecognized side effect of serotonergic antidepressants.
- Further research is necessary to determine the incidence and effective treatments for antidepressant-induced urinary incontinence.