Why is this medication prescribed?

Myrbetriq is a prescription medication used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, such as urgency, frequency, and urinary incontinence. The active ingredient in Myrbetriq is mirabegron, which works by relaxing the smooth muscle of the bladder, allowing it to hold more urine and reducing the sudden and frequent urge to urinate.

How should this medicine be used?

• Dosage: The typical starting dose of Myrbetriq is 25 mg once daily. However, your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response to the medication and your individual needs.
• Administration: Myrbetriq should be taken orally with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but it is essential to take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the drug in your system.
• Swallow the tablet whole: Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet before swallowing, as this may alter the way the medication is released into your body.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions: Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and duration of Myrbetriq treatment. Do not stop taking the medication or change the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.
• If you miss a dose: If you forget to take a dose of Myrbetriq, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Complete the full course: It’s important to continue taking Myrbetriq even if you start feeling better, as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping the medication prematurely may cause the symptoms to return.
• Regular check-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and discuss any side effects or concerns you may have.

Always inform your doctor about your complete medical history and any other medications you are taking before starting Myrbetriq, as certain conditions or drug interactions may affect its suitability for you. As with any medication, Myrbetriq may cause side effects in some individuals, so it’s essential to be aware of potential adverse reactions and discuss them with your healthcare provider if they occur.

Other uses for this medicine

Myrbetriq (mirabegron) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, as mentioned earlier. It is essential to use this medication only for the purposes approved by your healthcare provider. If there have been any new off-label uses approved since my last update, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider while taking Myrbetriq:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to mirabegron or any other ingredients present in Myrbetriq.
• Medical history: Before starting Myrbetriq, disclose your complete medical history to your doctor, especially if you have a history of any of the following conditions: liver or kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart problems, urinary retention, or stomach or intestinal issues.
• Drug interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as some drugs can interact with Myrbetriq and lead to adverse effects or reduced effectiveness.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Myrbetriq with your healthcare provider.
• Children and elderly: The safety and efficacy of Myrbetriq have not been extensively studied in children or elderly populations. Its use in these groups should be determined based on individual circumstances and medical advice.
• Alcohol and caffeine: Myrbetriq may increase sensitivity to alcohol and caffeine. Limiting or avoiding these substances while taking the medication may be advised.
• Driving and operating machinery: Myrbetriq may cause dizziness or blurred vision in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Overactive bladder symptoms: Myrbetriq is intended for the treatment of OAB symptoms, and if you experience sudden and severe abdominal or stomach pain, you should seek immediate medical attention, as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
• Dosage adjustments: The appropriate dosage of Myrbetriq may need to be adjusted based on your individual response to the medication and any existing medical conditions.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and communicate any concerns or side effects you experience while taking Myrbetriq. If you have any questions or doubts about the medication’s use, talk to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Myrbetriq (mirabegron). However, it’s generally a good idea to maintain a healthy and balanced diet while taking any medication. Eating a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of nutrients can support overall health and may complement the treatment’s effectiveness.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Myrbetriq, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Myrbetriq (mirabegron) may cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. It’s essential to be aware of potential side effects while taking this medication and to promptly report any concerns to your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Myrbetriq may include:

• Increased blood pressure: Myrbetriq can cause an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure.
• Headache: Headaches are a commonly reported side effect with Myrbetriq use.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): Some individuals may be more prone to developing UTIs while taking Myrbetriq.
• Nasopharyngitis (common cold): This refers to inflammation of the nose and throat, and it’s a relatively common side effect.
• Constipation: Myrbetriq may lead to constipation in some individuals.
• Diarrhea: While constipation can occur, diarrhea is also a potential side effect of Myrbetriq.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience feelings of nausea.
• Dizziness: Myrbetriq can cause dizziness or lightheadedness in certain cases.
• Blurred vision: Some individuals may experience visual disturbances while taking Myrbetriq.
• Dry mouth: This side effect is relatively uncommon but may occur in some cases.
• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions to Myrbetriq can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s essential to remember that your healthcare provider prescribed Myrbetriq because they judged that the benefits outweigh the potential risks of side effects. Most people taking this medication do not experience severe side effects. However, if you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms while taking Myrbetriq, contact your doctor promptly.

Additionally, individual responses to medications can vary, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and information related to your specific medical situation.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Myrbetriq:

• Storage: Keep Myrbetriq tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Follow any specific storage instructions provided on the medication’s label or by your pharmacist.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Myrbetriq in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Myrbetriq if it has passed the expiration date.
• Disposal: If you have any unused or expired Myrbetriq tablets, do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain. Properly dispose of the medication following local guidelines for medication disposal or take-back programs, if available. If you are unsure about how to dispose of the medication, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose of Myrbetriq, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. If possible, have the medication packaging or information readily available to provide details to medical professionals.

Symptoms of a potential overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, severe headache, confusion, or difficulty breathing. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention to receive appropriate treatment and care.

What other information should I know

• Regular follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Myrbetriq and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Inform other healthcare providers: If you are seeing multiple healthcare providers, make sure to inform each of them about all the medications you are taking, including Myrbetriq, to avoid potential drug interactions or conflicting treatments.
• Avoid certain substances: Myrbetriq may increase sensitivity to alcohol and caffeine. Limiting or avoiding these substances while taking the medication may be advised.
• Medical ID: If you have a history of taking Myrbetriq or have an ongoing prescription, consider wearing a medical identification bracelet or carrying a card in your wallet that specifies the medication you are taking. This information can be crucial in emergencies when you may not be able to communicate your medical history.
• Response time: It may take several weeks for Myrbetriq to reach its full effectiveness in managing overactive bladder symptoms. Continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you don’t see immediate improvements.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: Do not stop taking Myrbetriq suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this may lead to a worsening of symptoms or withdrawal effects.

As always, follow your doctor’s instructions and communicate any concerns or questions you have about Myrbetriq. Your healthcare provider is the best resource to provide personalized advice based on your medical history and individual needs.