Future Directions in Overactive Bladder Treatment

Overactive bladder (OAB) remains a remarkably common urologic condition resulting in significant clinical and economic sequelae. Although likely underestimated, the overall prevalence of overactive bladder is projected to be between 15% and 38%. The mainstay of therapy for decades has revolved around anticholinergic pharmaceuticals. However, recent advances in bladder and urothelial physiology have dramatically expanded the treatment options available for OAB management. Herein we present an overview of several emerging options for OAB therapy and review the available literature regarding these therapies. Despite substantial investment into OAB treatment, we are witness to but the genesis of research on detrusor function and urothelial biology that will guide practitioner interventions in the coming decades. Immense opportunity exists for future evaluation of OAB pathophysiology to advance our knowledge regarding management of this multifactorial urologic disorder. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.