Pfizer’s Toviaz receives approval for treatment

Pfizer announced that drug used for treatment of overactive bladder (OAB), Toviaz, has been granted approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The medication, used once daily, can significantly reduce the number of urge urinary incontinence episodes, along with the frequency of urination, over 24 hours.

Affecting an estimated one in six Americans, OAB still remains highly undertreated. Research, including a March 2008 National Institutes of Health (NIH) report, concludes that the embarrassment and stigma associated with incontinence can cause sufferers to try to hide the condition from families, friends and even their doctors.

Nancy Muller, executive director of the National Association for Continence, said: “We need to encourage people with OAB symptoms to stop simply coping and start talking to their doctors about finding treatment approaches that work for them. New treatments, like Toviaz, offer healthcare professionals another option to help their patients.”

Symptoms of OAB can have an effect on the person’s workplace productivity, social and sexual activity and sleep – with the condition also leading to other health problems, such as falls and fractures, urinary tract infections and skin disorders.

Previously limited to Europe, it is hoped that Toviaz will be available in the US from the first half of 2009.