Medicines that may cause urinary incontinence in men

Prescription and nonprescription medicines can cause involuntary loss of urine. The degree of loss of bladder control will vary from person to person.

Medicines that may make urinary incontinence worse include:

  • Diuretics, such as furosemide (Lasix) or hydrochlorothiazide (for example, Esidrix).
  • Anticholinergics, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, for example) or dicyclomine (such as Bentyl).
  • Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (for example, Elavil) or doxepin (Sinequan).
  • Alpha-blockers, such as doxazosin (Cardura) or terazosin (Hytrin).
  • Sedatives, such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium, for example) or diazepam (Valium, for example).
  • Narcotics, such as codeine or meperidine (Demerol, for example).
  • Calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil (for example, Calan SR) or diltiazem (such as Cardizem).
  • Nonprescription medicines such as diet, allergy, and cold medicines.

If you notice a urinary problem after taking a prescription or nonprescription medicine, talk with your health professional about another medicine you might use.



Author: Ralph PooreLast Updated: August 10, 2006
Medical Review: Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology

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