The stigma of incontinence and the assumption that it is a normal consequence of aging have resulted in under-reporting and under-diagnosis.

The usual pharmacotherapy for OAB are antimuscarinics; however, modest efficacy, multiple daily dosing and slow onset of action coupled with poorly tolerated side-effects (notably dry mouth) often compromise patient compliance.

More recent products to appear on the market include solifenacin, with a once-daily regimen than has proved effective for a 24-hour period and darifenacin, which has been shown to reduce incontinence episodes by up to 83%.

Although the OAB market is well addressed with antimuscarinic agents, URODOC predicts that there is still market opportunity for agents that are more uroselective and not associated with antimuscarinic-type side-effects and for agents with different mechanisms of action.

Alternatively, a dual approach could also be mounted based on a combination product strategy involving established agents such as an antimuscarinic and an alpha-blocker.

Encouraging patients to visit their physician is also another key area for market development.