Abstract

The overactive bladder syndrome with and without urinary incontinence and related conditions, signs, and disorders such as detrusor overactivity, neurogenic voiding dysfunction, underactive bladder, stress urinary incontinence, and nocturia are common in the general population and have a major impact on the quality of life of the affected patients and their partners. Based on the deliberations of the subcommittee on pharmacological treatments of the 7^th International Consultation on Incontinence, we present a comprehensive review of established drug targets in the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome and the above-mentioned related conditions and the approved drugs used in its treatment. Investigational drug targets and compounds are also reviewed. We conclude that despite a range of available medical treatment options, a considerable medical need continues to exist. This is largely because the existing treatments are symptomatic and have limited efficacy and/or tolerability, which leads to poor long-term adherence.

Significance Statement Urinary incontinence and related disorders are prevalent in the general population. While many treatments have been approved, few patients stay on long-term treatment despite none of them being curative. This manuscript provides a comprehensive discussion of existing and emerging treatment options for various types of incontinence and related disorders.