Desfesoterodine

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Desfesoterodine skeletal

Desfesoterodine is a medication used in the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency. It is a selective muscarinic receptor antagonist, which works by relaxing the bladder muscles to prevent urgent, frequent, or uncontrolled urination.

Mechanism of Action

Desfesoterodine is the active metabolite of fesoterodine, which is a prodrug. Once administered, fesoterodine is rapidly hydrolyzed by nonspecific esterases to its active form, desfesoterodine. Desfesoterodine exerts its effects by inhibiting the muscarinic receptors in the bladder, reducing bladder muscle contractions and increasing bladder capacity.

Pharmacokinetics

Desfesoterodine is well absorbed after oral administration. It reaches peak plasma concentrations within a few hours. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. The half-life of desfesoterodine is approximately 7-8 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

Indications

Desfesoterodine is indicated for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary urgency, urinary frequency, and urge incontinence.

Side Effects

Common side effects of desfesoterodine include:

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Dyspepsia
• Headache
• Dizziness

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Urinary retention
• Severe allergic reactions

Contraindications

Desfesoterodine is contraindicated in patients with:

• Urinary retention
• Gastric retention
• Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
• Known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components

Dosage and Administration

Desfesoterodine is typically administered once daily, with or without food. The dosage may be adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerability.

Interactions

Desfesoterodine may interact with other medications, including:

• Anticholinergic drugs
• CYP3A4 inhibitors
• CYP2D6 inhibitors

See Also

• Fesoterodine
• Overactive bladder
• Muscarinic receptor

External Links

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