Solifenacin

Dosage Forms Available

• Solifenacin can be taken orally (tablets and suspensions).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Solifenacin is intended for use in adults and in children aged 2 years and above.

Contraindications

• Solifenacin is contraindicated in patients with urinary or gastric retention.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, severe liver impairment (Child-Pugh Class C), severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 ml/min), and in those with a known hypersensitivity to Solifenacin or any of the excipients in the formulation.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Solifenacin may interact with other anticholinergic medications (such as oxybutynin and tolterodine), and CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, and grapefruit juice).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Solifenacin can result in severe anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, urinary retention, dilated pupils, and confusion. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

• If a dose of Solifenacin is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Solifenacin are temporary and generally resolve upon discontinuation of the medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, consult your doctor.

• Dry mouth can be managed by drinking plenty of water or chewing sugar-free gum.

• Constipation can be managed by increasing dietary fibre intake and staying well-hydrated.

• In case of blurred vision, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until vision clears.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Solifenacin may cause blurred vision or drowsiness in some patients. This may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until these symptoms resolve.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before starting this medication.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should use Solifenacin with caution as dose adjustments may be required.

• Patients with a history of bladder outflow obstruction, decreased gastrointestinal motility, controlled narrow-angle glaucoma, and certain neurological disorders should also use Solifenacin with caution.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• For managing symptoms of overactive bladder, consider limiting intake of bladder irritants such as caffeine and alcohol.

• Maintain a healthy fluid intake but avoid drinking large amounts of fluid at once to prevent frequent urination.

• Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) can help strengthen the muscles that control urination and improve symptoms.