 | With Health Insurance: Copay + $5-$50 Per Month |
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 | Without Health Insurance: $5-$150+ Per Month |
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| Overactive bladder is a condition that causes a feeling of urgency, frequent need to urinate and, in some cases, incontinence. It typically is treated with exercises and, in some cases, medication. | | |
| Typical costs: | - For patients covered by health insurance, out-of-pocket costs typically consist of a doctor -visit copay and a prescription drug copay, which could range from $5 or less to $50 or more per month, depending on the copay structure and the drug. Treatment of overactive bladder typically is covered by health insurance, though some drugs might not be covered until a patient has unsuccessfully tried another drug for a certain time period, and some drugs are subject to exclusions. For example, Aetna requires that patients try a drug on the preferred list for one month before it will cover certain name-brand drugs, such as Detrol or Toviaz; it excludes Urispas, unless a medical exception is granted.
- For patients not covered by health insurance, the cost of overactive bladder treatment typically ranges from less than $100 for a doctor visit and at-home exercises. If medication is required, it typically costs less than $5 to $150 or more per month, depending on the type of medication, the form of medication (tablet, liquid, extended release capsule, patch) and whether generic or name-brand is used. For example, at HealthWarehouse.com, a one-month supply of generic 5 mg Oxybutynin tablets costs $3.50, while the equivalent amount of syrup costs $14.50 and the extended-release tablets cost $65. A different drug, only available in name-brand, Detrol, costs $133 for a one-month supply of capsules. At DrugStore.com, a different name-brand drug, Toviaz, costs about $140 for a one-month supply of 24-hour tablets.
What should be included: | - First a doctor will conduct an examination to rule out any serious underlying cause of overactive bladder, such as cancer or a neurological problem. In many cases, no cause can be found.
- Before trying medication, a doctor might recommend behavioral training and exercises that could include: decrease in caffeine or fluid consumption, delayed urination, scheduled bathroom trips and Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor.
- If behavioral changes and exercises do not improve the problem, the doctor might prescribe one of a number of medications available to relax the bladder. Common brand names include Detrol, Toviaz, Vesicare and Sanctura.
- The Mayo Clinic has an overview of treatments for overactive bladder.
Additional costs: | - If incontinence is involved, it might be necessary to purchase some incontinence products while working with a doctor to control the problem. Incontinence pads can cost about $5 to $20 per pack. Bed protection can cost $15 or less for disposable pads or $20 -$30 or more for a reusable pad.
Discounts: | - Some drug manufacturers offer discounts or coupons. For example, Toviaz has a free one-month trial offer and a refill card good for up to $25 off (or the amount of the copay, if less) per month. And Detrol has a $20 rebate.
Shopping for overactive bladder treatment: | - A urologist can diagnose and make treatment recommendations for overactive bladder. The American Urological Association offers a urologist locator by zip code. It is important to make sure the doctor is board-certified by the American Board of Urology.
- Consumer Reports offers a report comparing the cost and effectiveness of the medications most commonly used to treat overactive bladder.
- It is important to discuss risks of any medication with a doctor. Side effects and risks vary, depending on the drug, but dry mouth, constipation and stomach upset are common side effects of many overactive bladder medications. The National Institutes of Health offers additional information on risks for Oxybutynin and other drugs.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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Article updated June 2011 |
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