B3 Agonists
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Education Materials
EEU B3
EEU
Summary
Beta-3 Agonists: Oral Medication for Overactive Bladder
Beta-3 adrenergic agonists—like mirabegron (Myrbetriq®) and vibegron (Gemtesa®)—are prescription pills used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) in adults. These medications work by helping the bladder muscle relax during filling, which increases bladder capacity and helps reduce:
- Sudden urgency to urinate
- Frequent urination
- Urge incontinence (leaks before reaching the bathroom)
Beta-3 Agonists
- Mirabegron is FDA-approved and widely used
- Vibegron is a newer option with similar or better results
- Both have fewer side effects like dry mouth or constipation than older anticholinergic drugs
- Can be used alone or alongside other bladder medications and treatments for added benefit
How They Work:
These medications stimulate β3 receptors in the bladder's detrusor muscle, helping it hold more urine and respond less urgently—without blocking the nervous system like many older medications.
What to Expect
Benefit | What Studies Show
Symptom control | ~44–46% success at 12 months with mirabegron
Fewer side effects | Less dry mouth and constipation than traditional bladder meds
Convenient dosing | Once-daily oral tablets
Combination friendly | Can be used with other OAB meds or treatments
Symptom control | ~44–46% success at 12 months with mirabegron
Fewer side effects | Less dry mouth and constipation than traditional bladder meds
Convenient dosing | Once-daily oral tablets
Combination friendly | Can be used with other OAB meds or treatments
Possible Side Effects
- Slight rise in blood pressure (monitor if you have hypertension)
- Headache, nasal congestion, or UTI
- Rare but possible increase in heart rate
Especially Helpful For Women who cannot tolerate antimuscarinics (like oxybutynin or tolterodine) due to:
- Cognitive effects (brain fog or memory issues)
- Anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness)
Sources: 42, 43, 44