Pharmacotherapy of voiding dysfunction in the elderly

Abstract

Voiding dysfunction in the elderly may have various causes. The process of aging may affect the storage or voiding capacity of the bladder with resultant incontinence or retention of urine. This may be the result of detrusor dysfunction, sphincter weakness (sometimes following surgery), bladder outflow impairment (most commonly due to an enlarged prostate) and neuropathy. In addition, the elderly are more likely to suffer from physical or mental conditions requiring therapy with drugs which could have side effects on the process of micturition.