Botox: An Effective Treatment for Overactive Bladder

Botox isn't just for frowns any more. Botulinum toxin A, commonly known as Botox and often used for cosmetic purposes, can provide a simple and effective treatment for urinary problems. More than 17 million Americans suffer from overactive bladder, a condition that is characterized by extremely frequent urination and the inability to "retain" urine, resulting in frequent leaks. An overactive bladder is caused by unwanted contraction of the muscle that controls the bladder. Botox blocks the signals that tell this muscle to contract, but leaves the surrounding muscles able to function properly. In a few small studies, injection of Botox into the bladder muscle has prevented these contractions, improving bladder function for about 80 percent of patients treated.

Explore our urology section for more information on the University of Chicago Hospitals' treatment of overactive bladder.

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