Which medications in the drug class Alpha-Adrenergic Blockers are used in the treatment of Urinary Incontinence?

Updated: Jan 22, 2021
  • Author: Sandip P Vasavada, MD; Chief Editor: Edward David Kim, MD, FACS  more...
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Answer

Alpha-Adrenergic Blockers

These agents have been used to decrease bladder overactivity. They have shown some success in patients who have decentralized or autonomous bladders as the result of myelodysplasia, spinal cord injury, or radical pelvic surgery.

Phenoxybenzamine (Dibenzyline)

This agent decreases bladder contractions through long-lasting, noncompetitive, alpha-adrenergic blockade of postganglionic synapses at smooth muscle and exocrine glands.

Prazosin (Minipress)

Prazosin decreases internal sphincter tone and can improve the flow of urine, improving emptying of bladder. Although doses greater than 20 mg/d usually do not increase efficacy, a few patients may benefit from dose as high as 40 mg/d. If an increase in dose is needed, give first dose of each increment at bedtime to reduce syncopal episodes.


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