Vesicare

[amylr]

So I started Vesicare about a week ago (5mg) and my Uro told me that the medicine wont really help right away and to give it about 3 weeks to kick in. Ok, no problem I thought. Well for the pest 2 days Ive been in a flare, which is EXTREMELY unusual since I typically only have a flare for a few hours. Also, I will have a full bladder (or atleast feel like it) and when I use the restroom I have to strain very, very hard to even start a stream. As soon as I stop straining, the stream stops as well despite really needing to continue. Normally I have to strain a bit (yes, I know this is bad) but the stream continues.

The only thing I could figure out that would even possibly make this problem occur is that I started the Vesicare. Isnt it supposed to help me though? Im just feeling terribly discouraged since I actually feel WORSE. I guess Ive just been down in the dumps because Im trying to figure out an IC friendly way to travel that is also affordable for 3 people. I just feel Ive been cheated out of my youth-- being 18 and trapped in the house because of flares. The worst part is, I KNOW when a flare is starting but by the time I can tell, its too late to even do anything.

Anyway, has anyone had luck with Vesicare? Does anyone have any advice? I dont know if I should call the Uro or wait it out for the 6 week trial period. Ive heard of people with retention issues from meds, but Im not really sure if this is what Im experiencing since I dont really know exactly what is meant by retention.

:help:

[Braedley]

I use Vesicare in conjunction with other meds (Elavil, Tylenol Arthritis every 8 hrs) and it has helped me some - what happens for me is constant spasms when I urinate, and it has helped with that aspect. However, what you seem to be experiencing is slight retention which is not good...I have a touch of that if I'm not hydrated enough which is odd, but it's not quite as severe as what you're describing..
I would talk to your GP or your uro and explain what's been going on - try Ditropan XL and really try the Tylenol Arthritis, honest to god it is the best thing that's happened to me! it's extended pain relief, and if you're healthy and don't have any BP problems etc., give it a try with your doctor's ok...I would def. try another drug though...the Ditropan XL worked well for me in the past but I couldn't use it when I was trying to get pregnant etc. - Elavil and Tylenol Arthritis only...
good luck, feel free to PM me if you have any other questions or concerns :)

[MinnieK]

Hi Amylr,

I am so sorry that you are having IC probelms at such a young age. My IC started in 2005 , I am 56 yrs old. At first I would try meds for a few days I would go back to the Urologist and tell him that it was not working. I have tried Vesicare, Detrol, Diptropan, etc., Oxytrol patch, finally he put me on Enablex 15 mg (a GOD sent for me)and Hydroxyzine, Heparin bladder instills once a week for 6 weeks, I am not 100% but I feel better than I have felt in a long time. I'm hoping that remission for me will come soon. I have gone in remission before that lasted years. I had a mild flare yesterday that lasted late evening and through the night. When I got up this morning I was better still going to the bathroom more that norm but not 24/7 like I usually do.

Kind regards
Minnie

[mouse]

I am so sorry for you. I am 38 and I can't stand having this and how it has impacted my quality of life. I will tell you I also had a horrible reaction on vesicare...I actually can not take any of the medications for overactive bladder. They all have the reverse affect on me...They make me feel like I have to go to the bathroom more but when I actually get in the bathroom I can't go!!! I too have to strain. The only thing I can tell you is talk to your doctor and after going off it for one day I am usually back to normal...Whatever that may be! Best of luck!!!:pray:

[Braedley]

oh Mouse, that's horrible! it's bad enough we have to deal with IC in the first place, let alone having a difficult time with meds :(
Hoping you ladies can find some relief - mine is ok right now with my meds and diet but I always have problems around my period and ovulation...
best wishes ladies

[TrinityEngel]

Vesicare was horrible for me. Made all my symptoms worse and I got headaches from hell.