New study to compare Botox against oral medications for urge incontinence in women

A new study is underway at Loyola University Health System (LUHS) to compare botulinum toxin A or Botox® versus common oral medications for urge incontinence in women. Urge incontinence is urinary incontinence with a strong or sudden need to urinate. Millions of women suffer in silence each day from this condition.

"Incontinence is a legitimate health concern that can detract from the great quality of life that each woman should have," said Linda Brubaker, MD, director, Division of Female Pelvic & Reconstructive Surgery, Loyola University Health System, and associate dean for Clinical and Translational Research, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine (SSOM). "We want to offer improved treatment so that women no longer have to fear that their bladder will lose control. We know that this problem is treatable and we anticipate that this major research study will guide doctors to the best treatment for their patients."

Approximately one in four American women have at least one pelvic floor disorder, such as urinary incontinence. Current methods to treat urinary urge incontinence include lifestyle modifications, pelvic floor exercises and medications.

This study will evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of each treatment strategy as measured by the change in urge incontinence episodes over six months. One group of women will receive the wrinkle reducer, which paralyzes the bladder muscle and improves symptoms of urge incontinence. The other group will receive traditional medication, which blocks bladder contractions. Adult women must have five or more urge incontinence episodes in a span of three days to be eligible for this study.