Toviaz
Fesoterodine FumarateWhat does Toviaz treat?
Toviaz is indicated for people suffering from overactive bladder (OAB).
OAB can cause symptoms that can be uncomfortable and painful, such as:
- Urinary frequency: The consistent need to urinate lasting for long periods of time, or occurring frequently.
- Urinary urgency: The urge to urinate that comes on suddenly and rapidly, often paired with:
- Urge incontinence: The inability to hold urine in the bladder when the sudden need to urinate happens.
Toviaz uses its anticholinergic effects to target the body’s trigger and response system which regulates the constriction of muscles in the bladder. By stopping these functions, this medication relaxes the muscles in the urinary system, allowing for the symptoms of OAB to be relieved.
Toviaz Warnings and Precautions
Operating heavy machinery: When using this medication, do not drive or operate machinery until you have used Toviaz enough to know exactly how it affects you. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, meaning that operating heavy machinery while starting a new dosage of Toviaz can be extremely dangerous.
Pregnant/breastfeeding women: The effects of this medication have in pregnant women and breastfeeding women have not been properly studied. If you are pregnant, considering pregnancy, or nursing, and you are in need of this medication to treat OAB, you should talk to your doctor in order to weigh the various risks and benefits.
CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors: Using this medication alongside these drugs has shown to have negative side effects as a result of the interactions between them. Depending on your doctor’s recommendations, it may be necessary to adjust the dosages or to discontinue using this medication.
Other anticholinergics: Using Toviaz with other anticholinergics (such as Atrovent, Atropine, Detrol, etc.) can increase the therapeutic effects of Toviaz; however, it may also increase the unwanted side effects associated with anticholinergics.
Angioedema: If you are experiencing swelling in the face along with skin rashes, you could be having an allergic reaction, and you should call emergency medical services as soon as possible.
Contraindications of using Toviaz
Those who have the following conditions should not use this medication:
- Urinary retention (unable to urinate)
- Gastric retention (slow or delayed emptying of stomach contents into the intestinal system)
- Narrow angle glaucoma (increased eye pressure)
- Hypersensitivity to Toviaz or any other anticholinergic drug
- Hypersensitivity to soya, peanuts, and lactose.
- Renal impairment
- Myasthenia gravis
- Uncontrolled narrow angle glaucoma
Toviaz Side Effects
Dry mouth is an extremely common side effect (19-35% of patients in clinical trials) that can be very uncomfortable. This is because this drug affects the body’s ability to regulate secretions. To manage this symptom, it may be beneficial to carry a water bottle around and take sips throughout the day or chew gum or suck on hard candies to keep the mouth moisturized. It is also advisable to refrain from eating salty or spicy foods and drinking caffeinated, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages, all of which will dry the mouth out.
Always report side effects or any adverse events to a healthcare professional. Visit or call your doctor for medical advice about this medication’s side effects.
Common side effects include:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- UTI
- URTI
- Dry eyes
- Painful urination
- Urinary retention
- Dry throat
- Swelling of extremities
- Skin rash
- Blurry vision
- Dizziness
- Headaches
Uncommon side effects include:
- Cough
- Back pain
- abdominal pain
- Trouble sleeping
- Drowsiness
Toviaz Side Effects for Elderly People
As the body ages, the organs can become less functional and more vulnerable to developing diseases. This prescription drug can cause hepatic (liver) and renal (kidney) problems. If you are over the age of 65, or if you are at risk for renal or hepatic impairment, you should monitor your health closely when using this medication.
Toviaz doses are available in two strengths:
- Toviaz 4 mg tablets
- Toviaz 8 mg tablets
The suggested beginning dosage is 4 mg once day. The dosage may be increased to the maximum of 8 mg per day if it’s necessary.
How to take Toviaz
Swallow one tablet whole with water, without chewing. You may take this medication with or without food, depending on your preference. If a tablet is leaking or damaged, it should be considered dysfunctional and is not to be used.
For a missed dose, skip the missed dose unless it is close enough to the missed time. Do not double dose.
Take this medication only as directed. Do not share this medication.
Storage
Store in a dry place at room temperature (15°-25° Celsius). Keep away from moisture.
Do not use this drug after the expiration date has passed
Keep out of children’s reach and sight.
