Overactive bladder treatment, discreet and clinically reviewed

What is an overactive bladder?

An overactive bladder (OAB) is when the bladder squeezes more often than it needs to, creating a sudden, urgent need to urinate that can be difficult to hold. Some people also experience leaking before they reach the toilet — this is called urge incontinence. The condition can affect work, sleep, travel and social life, and many people live with it for years before asking for help.

OAB is extremely common — it affects both men and women and becomes more likely with age, though it can occur at any stage of adult life. The good news is that it usually responds well to treatment, and there is no need to simply put up with it.

What causes an overactive bladder?

The exact cause is not always clear, but an overactive bladder typically occurs when the nerves or muscles controlling the bladder are not working as they should. Possible contributors include previous urinary infections, hormonal changes (particularly around the menopause), carrying extra weight, certain drinks such as alcohol and caffeine, and the side effects of some medicines. In some cases an underlying condition such as diabetes or a neurological problem is involved, which is why a proper assessment matters.

How is an overactive bladder treated?

Lifestyle adjustments — reducing caffeine, practising bladder-training techniques and managing fluid timing — often make a real difference and are worth trying alongside any medication. For those who need more support, prescription tablets designed to calm an overactive bladder are available. These work by relaxing the bladder muscle, reducing urgency and the number of times you need to go.

We do not list specific medicines on this page. Which tablet is appropriate for you, and at what dose, is a clinical decision made by your prescriber inside the consultation once they have checked your health history and that it is safe for you.

Treating urinary incontinence with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered community pharmacy at 245 High Street, Stratford, and our online clinic is run by the same registered team. You complete a confidential questionnaire, a UK prescriber reviews your answers, and if treatment is suitable your prescription is dispensed and sent in discreet, plain packaging — or you can collect from our Stratford branch.

How the online consultation works for urinary incontinence

The consultation takes around five minutes. You will be asked about your symptoms, how long they have been happening, your general health and any other medicines you take. If the prescriber decides treatment is suitable, you choose from the options presented inside the consultation — or ask the prescriber to recommend — and your order is prepared and dispatched the same working day.

When to see your GP instead

An online consultation is suited to adults who have typical overactive bladder symptoms and are otherwise in good health. See your GP if you notice blood in your urine, pain when urinating, a very sudden change in your bladder habits, or if you have already tried treatment without success. If the prescriber decides your situation needs a face-to-face assessment, they will tell you clearly and point you to the right care.