Long-term botulinum therapy for overactive bladder: myths and reality

The review article presents data on the efficacy and tolerability of intravesical injections of botulinum toxin in patients with overactive bladder. The pharmacological bases of the use of botulinum therapy in this category of patients are described in detail. Data on the history of the use of botulinum toxin for medical purposes are presented. Experience to date shows that intravesical botulinum toxin injections are highly effective and well tolerated in patients with refractory overactive bladder. Botulinum therapy is included in domestic and foreign clinical guidelines as a 3rd line treatment for idiopathic and neurogenic overactive bladder. Indications for its implementation are the inefficiency and/or poor tolerability of oral pharmacotherapy. It is noted that the only botulinum toxin recommended for use in clinical practice for the treatment of overactive bladder is onabotulinumtoxin A (Botox). The results of clinical studies are presented, showing that the effectiveness and safety of botulinum therapy do not decrease over time.