What is the best time to take Vesicare? (+3 factors)

In this article, we will discuss whether Vesicare should be given in the morning or at nighttime. We will look at the benefits and risks of taking Vesicare at both times. Furthermore, we will cover the ways by which Vesicare gives maximum efficacy.  

What is the best time to take Vesicare?

Vesicare can be either taken in the morning or at night time. There is no specific time to take Vesicare. However, the timing depends on individual patient needs and preferences. 

Vesicare (solifenacin) is an antimuscarinic drug. It is used to treat overactive bladder and neurogenic detrusor overactivity. The common symptoms of frequent urination, urgency, and urinary incontinence are treated with Vesicare (1). 

However, the specific timing of taking Vesicare may vary from patient to patient. You must always discuss the timing of taking Vesicare with your doctor. Your doctor may provide personalized advice based on your specific symptoms and condition. 

What does research suggest?

The research studies suggest that the night-time dosing of Vesicare and other antimuscarinic agents has generally shown better tolerability as compared to daytime dosing. Night-time dosing of Vesicare has also shown improved nocturia in overactive bladder patients (2). 

A study was conducted in Korea to evaluate changes in nocturia and sleep-related parameters in overactive bladder patients associated with nocturia by dividing them into daytime and nighttime dosing groups (2). 

For this study, 127 patients were given 5mg of Vesicare (solifenacin) per day for more than 12 weeks. The daytime dosing of Vesicare occurred after breakfast while the nighttime dosing occurred after dinner (2). 

However, this study concluded that Vesicare improved nocturia, urinary incontinence, and urgency which ultimately improved sleep quality. There was no difference found in the patients of both groups. This indicates that the administration timing of Vesicare has no significant difference (2). 

Which factors depend upon the timing of Vesicare?

The following few factors depend upon the administration timing of Vesicare:

• Consistency- Always take Vesicare at the same time to maintain a consistent level of medication in your body. 

• Taking with or without food- Vesicare may or may not be taken with food. If you experience an upset stomach while taking Vesicare, then you must take Vesicare with food to get rid of this side effect and vice versa.

• Individual preference- Some patients may find ease in taking Vesicare in the morning while others are comfortable taking it at night time. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the administration timing of Vesicare. 

• Follow your doctor’s prescription- You must prefer taking Vesicare at the time prescribed by your doctor. If that time does not suit you well then you must discuss it with your doctor before changing the medication timing. 

What are the potential side effects of Vesicare?

The potential side effects of Vesicare include (1):

• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Blurred vision
• Dry eyes
• Dry skin
• Backpain
• Hoarseness
• rash
• Hives
• Itching
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness

However, it is important to note that not all patients suffer from all these side effects. Some patients may experience some side effects more severely than others depending upon their response to Vesicare. 

How to choose the best time for Vesicare?

To choose the best timing for Vesicare, you must consult your healthcare provider. Your doctor may evaluate your symptoms and may suggest you take Vesicare either in the morning or at night based on your personal choices and treatment requirements. 

If you face any sleep-related disturbances, then taking Vesicare at nighttime may also improve your sleep quality. Therefore, always discuss additional or pre-existing healthcare issues with your doctor before starting new treatments. 

If you have any gastrointestinal side effects before starting Vesicare treatment, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They might adjust your meal and medication timing to avoid further worsening of gastrointestinal side effects. 

In my opinion

According to my opinion as a pharmacist, you may take Vesicare at a time that suits you best. However, maintain a consistent schedule and avoid hopping from morning to evening dosing frequently. 

Make sure to keep your doctor in the loop about the administration timing of Vesicare. Have open and transparent discussions about your condition, side effects, and preferences to avoid potential adversities. 

References