Urodynamic and other effects of tolterodine: a novel antimuscarinic drug for the treatment of detrusor overactivity

Tolterodine, a novel compound intended for treatment of urgency and urge incontinence, has been characterized as a potent muscarinic receptor antagonist in pharmacological in vitro and in vivo studies. In cats, tolerodine was shown to reduce bladder pressure at doses significantly lower than those affecting salivation. To predict clinical effectiveness, an open pilot study was performed in healthy male volunteers. Efficacy was measured by cystometry and by spontaneously reported effects after administration of a single oral dose of tolterodine, 6.4 mg, given as a water solution. Tolterodine had distinct inhibitory effects on urinary bladder function, both at 1 and 5 hours post-dose. At 1 hour, but not at 5 hours post-dose tolterodine also significantly reduced stimulated salvation. In addition to the objectively demonstrated changes in urodynamic parameters, most volunteers experienced voiding difficulties. No significant changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or near point of accommodation were registered. Tolterodine, in the dosage used, was both objectively and subjectively shown to exert a marked inhibitory effect on micturition in healthy subjects, and the data suggest a more pronounced effect on bladder function than on salivation.