The results of a new study using the drug Tolterodine ER were presented at the American Urogynecologic Society 29th Annual Scientific Meeting (AUGS) last week.

Tolterodine ER reduces overactive bladder symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQL) significantly.

The study enrolled 202 women for treatment with Tolterodine ER or placebo for 12 weeks. After the 12 weeks women who had taken Tolterodine Er showed significant reduction in overactive bladder symptoms.

The second phase of study was a 12 week open label phase and 161 women who remained in the study continued to be treated with Tolterodine ER, results at the end of 12 week period were maintained or became significantly improved.

Doctors noted that long-term pharmacotherapy may be important to optimise treatment outcomes.

Although bowel and bladder weakness becomes more common as we get older, it is not an inevitable part of ageing. Because bladder weakness is not a distinct disease, it is often difficult to determine a definite cause.

There are many ways in which you may develop bladder weakness or incontinence, below is an explanation of the main causes:

- Weakened Pelvic Floor Muscles - The bladder and outlet passage are supported and held in place by a sling of muscles called pelvic floor muscles that keep the bladder closed. If these muscles lose their strength and/or flexibility then even everyday activities such as coughing may cause leaking.

Being overweight can also put an added strain onto pelvic floor muscles.

- Birth Defect - You may have been born with a defective bladder or sphincter, which means you’ve always leaked or start to leak once other factors add to the problem.

- Menopause - due to the reduction in the quantity of oestrogen during the menopause many women notice that their bladder becomes lax, with leakage of urine.

- Illness - Kidney or urinary tract infections can cause temporary bladder weakness or incontinence. Severe constipation can also cause these conditions to occur.

- Nerve Damage - It can be caused by nerve damage, such as spinal cord injury, or with nerve diseases like multiple sclerosis.

- Other - Surgery, Medications, or an oversensitive bladder can also lead to bladder weakness.

Whatever the cause Allanda can provide the right best protection to suit you and your lifestyle.