Does Toviaz Cause Constipation?
Toviaz™ (
fesoterodine fumarate) is a prescription
overactive bladder treatment. It is classified as an anticholinergic medication and is, therefore, likely to cause a number of different "anticholinergic" side effects, including
constipation. In fact, constipation is considered one of the "classic" anticholinergic medication side effects.
Constipation and Toviaz: What the Research Says
When medications are developed in the United States, they must go through several clinical studies before they can be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In these studies, many people are given a particular medicine, while others are given a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient). In these studies, potential side effects in both groups are carefully documented. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group taking the placebo.
In clinical studies, up to 6 percent of people taking Toviaz 8 mg once daily experienced constipation, compared to only 2 percent of people taking the placebo. Constipation occurred a little less frequently (up to 4.2 percent) in people taking a lower
Toviaz dosage (4 mg once daily).
If you develop constipation while on Toviaz, talk to your healthcare provider. You can also try making a few dietary and lifestyle changes. Increasing fiber in your diet or adding bran to your food may be helpful. Drinking plenty of fluids and getting regular exercise can also help with
constipation relief. It is important to understand that severe constipation can be quite serious; do not hesitate to talk with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing severe constipation due to this medication.
