Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common urinary disorder marked by urgency, frequency, and nocturia, which significantly affects quality of life. First-line treatments include behavioral therapies and medications like antimuscarinics and beta-3 adrenergic agonists. However, side effects from antimuscarinics often lead to treatment switching, impacting patient adherence. Combination therapy with mirabegron and solifenacin offers an alternative but comes with additional side effects. This study aimed to explore the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients on different OAB treatments and the decision-making factors for both physicians and patients, focusing on combination therapy.

Researchers found that both patients and physicians prioritized treatment safety and efficacy, with physician recommendations being the most influential for patients. Those on third-line therapies had the highest symptom severity and lowest quality of life but were more aware of and interested in combination therapy compared to those on monotherapies. Many physicians and patients were unaware of combination therapy’s benefits, with concerns about cost, side effects, and efficacy acting as barriers. The study suggests that raising awareness of combination therapy could address unmet treatment needs, especially for patients who have not responded to other treatments. Further research is needed to assess its impact on adherence, outcomes, and costs.

Reference: Kraus SR, Li J, Kristy RM, et al. Evaluating and understanding combination therapy decision drivers for the treatment of overactive bladder in the United States. J Int Med Res. 2022;50(5):3000605221098176. doi: 10.1177/03000605221098176.