Myrbetriq (Mirabegron)
What is Myrbetriq (Mirabegron)?
Myrbetriq is an oral medication prescribed to treat bladder issues such as an overactive bladder or neurogenic detrusor overactivity. Overactive bladder stems from issues with urine storage in the bladder, while neurogenic detrusor overactivity is related to the brain, spinal cord, or nerve issues. Symptoms include frequent urination, sudden urges to urinate, and incontinence. Myrbetriq acts to relax the bladder muscles, improving the storage capacity and therefore the symptoms of these conditions.
Dosage
Myrbetriq is taken orally, typically once per day, with or without food (for adults). The tablet should be swallowed whole, and not crushed, chewed, or dissolved. Doing so releases all the drug which can have harmful effects. The dosage is prescribed according to the severity of your condition and the response to treatment. If this medication is being prescribed to a child, then the dosage is also calculated by weight and should be taken with food.
Myrbetriq extended-release tablets contain either 25mg or 50mg of the active ingredient mirabegron. The recommended starting dose is 25mg once daily, and this may be increased to 50mg once daily after 4-8 weeks.
Storage
Tablets should be stored in their original packaging until they are taken. Keep the tablets in an area where the temperature will not exceed 25°C. Store out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Dispose of expired or surplus tablets responsibly, following instructions from your doctor. Do not flush this medication down the toilet or sink.
Side Effects
All medications are accompanied by potential side effects. It is important to recognize that your healthcare provider has determined that the risks associated with this medication are outweighed by the potential benefit for you as an individual. You may experience some or none of the associated side effects.
Common Side Effects
The use of Myrbetriq is commonly associated with:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
- Runny nose
- Headache
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
If you experience any of the above side effects and it concerns you, worsens, or does not resolve on its own, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Severe Side Effects
Occasionally, this drug can be associated with severe side effects. These should be taken seriously and medical attention should be sought immediately.
- Burning/painful urination
- Allergic reaction symptoms: rash, itching, facial swelling, shortness of breath, severe dizziness/vertigo
- Increased blood pressure
- Inability to empty bladder (urinary retention)
- Chest pain
- Irregular heart rate
- Anxiety and confusion
This is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms that you are unsure about, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Warnings & Precautions
Always inform your pharmacist or doctor if you are allergic to Myrbetriq or any of its ingredients. Include any other allergies you have. Ensure your doctor is aware of your medical history, especially conditions such as bladder problems, hypertension, kidney disease, and liver problems.
Dizziness can be a side effect of taking this medication. It is recommended that you avoid substances that can exacerbate the dizziness, including alcohol and marijuana. Avoid operating heavy machinery (including driving) until you know how the drug affects you.
Consult your doctor before taking this medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Myrbetriq may increase your blood pressure or exacerbate blood pressure in hypertensive conditions. Monitor your blood pressure regularly while taking Myrbetriq and contact your doctor if you have any concerns.
Do not share this medication with anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you.
Before having surgery, inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you take (prescription and non-prescription).
Interactions & Contraindications
Interactions can occur between drugs that may alter how the drugs act in the body. It is important to share with your doctor all medications you take (including prescription and non-prescription) so all possible drug interactions can be assessed. Do not start, stop, or alter the dosage of any medications without consulting your doctor first.
You should not take Myrbetriq at the same time as Eliglusat or Thioridazine. Your doctor will likely change your medication schedule if you take either of these.
Myrbetriq is not recommended to be taken alongside the following:
- Clozapine
- Codeine
- Sirolimus
- Tramadol
- Dihydrocodeine
- Propafenone
- Desipramine
- Digoxin
- Metoprolol
Consult with your healthcare provider before starting Myrbetriq if you take any of the above medications.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Myrbetriq is a Beta-3 adrenergic agonist. It functions to relax the smooth muscle around the bladder to treat the symptoms of an overactive bladder.
Myrbetriq can be taken at any time of day. It is best if you take it at the same time each day.
Adults can take Myrbetriq with or without food. Children should take Myrbetriq with food.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you remember close to when your next dose is scheduled, skip the missed dose altogether and take the following dose according to your medication schedule. Do not take both doses to catch up.
In a suspected overdose, emergency services should be called immediately. Overdose symptoms include trouble breathing and losing consciousness.
You can expect to see improvement in your symptoms in 4 to 8 weeks of starting Myrbetriq, provided you continue taking the medication according to your schedule. Results can vary between individuals, and it is important you take Myrbetriq consistently to see results.
People who are allergic to mirabegron or any of the inactive ingredients in Myrbetriq should not take this medication. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should consult their doctors before taking Myrbetriq. People with end-stage renal disease, severe kidney disease, or severe uncontrolled hypertension should not take this medication. Myrbetriq is not recommended for children under three years old.