The use of scopolamine in the treatment of detrusor instability.

Author(s): Muskat Y, Bukovsky I, Schneider D, Langer R.

Affiliation(s): Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assaf Harofe Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel.

Publication date & source: 1996, J Urol. , 156(6):1989-90

PURPOSE: A prospective randomized double-blind study was done to evaluate the efficiency of transdermal scopolamine in the treatment of detrusor instability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 20 female patients with detrusor instability was assigned randomly into 2 groups of 10 each. The study group received 4 transdermal scopolamine dermal patches postauricularly, while in the control group placebo patches were applied. Both groups were similar regarding patient age, parity, duration of symptoms and previous anti-incontinence surgery. RESULTS: The patients were reassessed after 14 days. Improvement in complaints of diurnal frequency (p < 0.05), nocturia (p < 0.005), urgency (p < 0.05) and urge incontinence (p < 0.05) was noted in the study group and not in the control group. A significantly (p < 0.05) less pressure increase on filling and a decreased volume at which pressure exceeded 15 cm. water (p < 0.05) were noted on cystometry in the study group only. No significant side effects were reported and no patient discontinued treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Transdermal scopolamine was effective and safe in the treatment of female patients with detrusor instability.