GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Solifenacin (Solifenacin Succinate) is a medication used in the treatment of overactive bladder and assists in controlling urination. '.

If you think Solifenacin is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Solifenacin is an effective medication for treating the symptoms of an overactive bladder. The most common symptoms of an overactive bladder include the sudden need to urinate, needing to urinate more often, and wetting yourself if you are not able to hold your urine.

Vesicare

It can also be found in its branded form, Vesicare.

Solifenacin Succinate

Solifenacin works by relaxing the muscles around the bladder. By doing this, your bladder can hold more liquid which means you do not need to urinate as often or with such urgency. It contains the active ingredient solifenacin succinate.

You should always use your medication at the time you have been told to by your healthcare provider. You can take Solifenacin at any time during the day, but you should try and aim for it to be around the same time each day.

You should only ever use the dosage of Solifenacin you have been prescribed by your healthcare provider. The usual dosage is 5mg taken once a day. This can change depending on the advice of your healthcare provider. Your dose may be increased to 10mg a day if your symptoms do not improve.

Solifenacin is a suitable medication for the majority of people over the age of 18 years old who suffer from an overactive bladder. 

Solifenacin may not be a suitable treatment option for some people. This medication should not be used by people under the age of 18 years old, or by anyone who is allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication. Do not use Solifenacin if:

• You have liver or kidney problems
• You have myasthenia gravis, a rare condition that causes muscle weakness
• You have glaucoma
• You have a severe stomach or bowel condition
• You are not able to urinate or empty your bladder

Solifenacin is not usually recommended for use in pregnancy as there is not currently enough information to say whether or not it is safe for you or your baby. If you are pregnant, or trying to become pregnant, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor for further advice. 

Solifenacin is not usually recommended for mothers who are breastfeeding, however, some breastfeeding mothers may still require it. Your doctor may tell you to continue using Solifenacin if they feel that the benefits outweigh the risks. 

Solifenacin may interact with other medications. It is important to let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are currently taking or have taken in the past. Tell your doctor if:

• You are using any medication that makes you drowsy, gives you a dry mouth, or makes it more difficult to urinate
• You are using ketoconazole or itraconazole, medications that are used to treat fungal infections
• You are using ritonavir, a medication that is used to treat HIV

As with all other medications, some people may experience side effects when they are using Solifenacin. The most common side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Headaches
• Feeling dizzy or sleepy
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Excess wind
• Dry eyes
• Blurred vision

To fully understand the warnings associated with Solifenacin it is important to read the patient information leaflet that is provided with your medication. 

You can purchase Solifenacin online from UK Meds which will be delivered straight to your door.

The medication is also available to buy in its branded form, Vesicare.