Bedwetting medication review

Bed-wetting as a problem

Bed-wetting is a problem that the greatest majority of children simply outgrow. However, there are those children who do not seem to be able to deal with this problem as easily as other children of their age, and if this problem remains even after the child turns 5 or 6, the problem might require a consultation with the doctor and employment of some other methods besides the usual. What is important to bear in mind is that the child probably already feels uncomfortable enough, which is why parents should have a lot of patience and understanding.

Medications for bed-wetting

This problem is treated with medications only when other methods of treatment do not help. Still, since there is no medication that can cure this condition permanently, those that are used usually only control the problem as long as they are taken. The mechanism of action of these medications consists of either increasing the capacity of the bladder or of decreasing the amount of urine that the kidneys release. Even when the combination of medications is used, the problem will reappear once the treatment is over.

Drug desmopressin acetate is a medication that has the ability to slow the production of urine during the night by increasing the levels of a natural anti-diuretic hormone. It is not recommended to take (or give to a child) this medication with lots of fluids, because it might provoke a seizure. In case a child has a headache or feels nauseous and vomits, this medication should not be given either.Anticholinergic medications such as Ditropan and Levsin can help in reducing the contractions of the bladder and increasing its capacity. Side effect that might be experienced are generally not serious, and most common are dry mouth and facial flushing.Antidepressants, though only some of them, might also be helpful because they can change the pattern of sleeping and waking. Besides this, they can also decrease the amount of the produced urine and increase the time during which the child is able to hold the urine. Impramine is one of the most usually employed medications, but it is necessary to be cautious due to the possible side effects, which include changes in the mood, problems with sleep, and fatal consequences in cases of overdosing. This is why antidepressants are practically the last resort when it comes to the treatment of this problem.