Vesicare and/or Equivalents
| Drug | Related Drug Names |
|---|---|
| Vesicare 5mg and/or Equivalents | Solifenacin, Vesicare |
| Vesicare 10mg and/or Equivalents | Solifenacin, Vesicare |
Vesicare (solifenacin)
Vesicare Description
Vesicare is the trade name of Solifenacin. It is a drug used for treating muscle spasms in the muscles of the urinary tract. It is marketed in the United States by Astellas and GlaxoSmithKline.
Solifenacin is an antagonist of the muscarinic receptors. It is used for the treatment of symptoms related to an overactive bladder.
Conditions Treated by Vesicare
As mentioned earlier, Vesicare is used to treat an overactive bladder. An overactive bladder is characterized by an increase in the frequency of urination, urgency in the need for urination, or incontinence, i.e. leaking of the bladder. Vesicare is administered to adults and its efficiency in children has not been studied yet.
There are certain receptors called as Muscarinic receptors present on the muscle cells. The Solifenacin in Vesicare prevents the binding of acetylcholine to these receptors. The binding of acetylcholine to these receptors sets up a cascade of signals, which ultimately lead to muscle contraction. Since the binding of acetylcholine is inhibited, smooth muscle contraction is inhibited. This allows retention of a larger volume of urine in the bladder and reduces the need to urinate frequently.
Vesicare Dosage Information
Vesicare is sold in the form of round film-coated tablets. These tablets are available in two dosages – 5mg and 100mg.
a.) Typical Dosage Recommendations
Solifenacin has a long half-life. Hence, it needs to be administered only once daily. Therapy is to be initiated with a dosage of 5mg once a day. If this dose is well tolerated, then the dose may be increased to 10mg once a day. You must have the tablets with medicines and you must swallow them whole. You must not chew or suck on the tablets.
b.) Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, then you may take the medication as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, then you may skip the missed dose. Do not overdose to compensate for the missed dose.
c.) Overdosing
In case you overdose, then you must seek medical help immediately. Overdosing may lead to complications such as severe stomach pain, constipation, decrease in the frequency of urination etc. If the overdosing is acute, then it may lead to serious complications related to the anticholinergic activity of the drug. It can lead to a change in the mental status and unconsciousness. It can also cause blurred vision, dilation of pupils etc.
Vesicare Warnings
In case you have problems such as retention of urine, glaucoma or known hypersensitivity to the drug, then undergoing therapy with Vesicare is to be avoided.
Solifenacin may cause Angioedema. Angioedema is a condition where swelling occurs. Unlike allergic reactions or so, the swelling is subcutaneous in this case. Angioedema of the face, tongue etc is a common side effect of Vesicare. This can also extend to the upper tract airways. In case the tongue or the larynx undergo swelling, it can lead to complications. Therefore, the medication must be discontinued immediately and measures must be taken to ensure that the airways are restored to normal.
In case you are suffering from obstruction in bladder outflow, then Vesicare may increase the risk of urinary retention and hence is to be administered with caution. In case, you suffer from decreased gastrointestinal motility, then you must exercise caution while taking this medication.
Vesicare should be used with caution in case you suffer from reduced renal function. In such a case, a dosage of not more than 5mg is recommended. Similarly, in case you suffer from reduced hepatic function too, then you should exercise caution while undergoing therapy with Vesicare.
When you are undergoing therapy with Vesicare, then you must avoid getting dehydrated in the hot weather. This will put you at an increased risk of heat stroke. In addition, Vesicare can cause side effects that affect your vision. Therefore, you must avoid doing activities that need you to see clearly, e.g. driving.
Vesicare Side Effects
Vesicare can cause side effects that can be categorized into common and severe. The COMMON side effects of Vesicare include:
- dryness of the mouth
- mild constipation
- nausea
- dizziness
In case, these symptoms persist for long or become severe, then you must consult your doctor. The severe side effects of the drug include:
- hypersensitivity
The symptoms of a hypersensitive reaction include:
- hives
- rashes
- difficulty in breathing etc
The other serious side effects are:
- constipation for a period of 3 days or more
- severe stomach pain
- change in your heart rate
- you may also experience a burning sensation or pain while urinating
- Your skin may go dry and you will feel hot and experience extreme thirst too at the same time
- But the most severe side effect that you may suffer is a decrease in the amount of urination
If you develop any of these severe side effects, you must discontinue your medication immediately and take professional help.
Possible Drug Interactions with Vesicare
- HIV/Aid Medication:
- hydrocodone (Lortab, Vicodin)
- meperidine (Demerol)
- methadone (Methadose)
- oxycodone (OxyContin)
- propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet)
If you have any questions about buying discount Vesicare online or any other prescription products you can contact our team of professional Patient Service Representatives or one of our pharmacists 24-7 by calling 1-800-226-3784.
Notice: The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Vesicare and/or Equivalents warnings, side-effects and general information
