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OTC Remedies for Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the inability to control the flow of urine and passing stool. Incontinence is not a serious health problem, but undoubtedly, it can be extremely embarrassing. An accident can occur when you laugh, cough or sneeze. Some people lose control of their bladder while jogging or playing tennis and other vigorous sports. A urinary tract infection, weak muscles, and medications can also cause this condition. Typically, incontinence occurs among older adults and is often a chronic problem, however, it's not unusual to be incontinent after childbirth or after gaining a lot of weight.

  1. Bladder-Control Patch

    • The Cleveland Clinic reports that medications work very well in returning normal function to your bladder. When choosing a medication to treat your incontinence, your doctor needs to consider your unique needs and symptoms. The primary goal is to not only cure your condition, but also avoid side effects. The first line of defense in treating incontinence is a medication that control muscle spasms in the bladder. Though newer drugs are available by prescription, there are patches available over-the-counter used to seal the opening of the urethra. The patch is removed prior to urinating. The Food and Drug Administration approved the sale of the UroMed Patch in 1996.

    Off-Label Medications

    • Another over-the-counter option for treating your incontinence is cough medicine. Alpha-adrenergic agonists, ingredients in bladder-control prescription medications, work by stimulating and contracting the urethral smooth muscle, thereby tightening the urinary sphincter and muscular valve that prevents your urine from leaking. The Mayo Clinic explains that "examples of alpha-adrenergic agonists include ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. These drugs aren't designed specifically for incontinence, but are commonly found in over-the-counter cough medicines, antihistamines and appetite suppressants." The Mayo Clinic indicates that these drugs can be helpful in treating mild cases of stress incontinence, but they can have side effects if not taken properly.

    Alternative Treatments

    • Not necessarily a remedy, but definitely a solution to an embarrassing condition, bladder-control aids are a must for anyone suffering from incontinence. Dryness pads, developed by N.A.S.A. and endorsed by astronauts, absorb liquids, turn them into a solid substance, and draw it away from the body. Designed specifically for both female and male users, they contain enough of the protective chemical to handle large leaks and accidents. Prevail Breezer Briefs and Serenity pads are examples of two brands available in most large chain stores.

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