Drug Guide
Fesoterodine Fumarate
Classification
Therapeutic: Urinary Antispasmodic, Overactive Bladder Agent
Pharmacological: Muscarinic Receptor Antagonist
FDA Approved Indications
- Treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency
Mechanism of Action
Fesoterodine is a prodrug converted to 5-hydroxymethyl tolterodine, which is a muscarinic receptor antagonist. It inhibits acetylcholine on smooth muscle in the bladder, reducing involuntary detrusor muscle contractions.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: 4 mg once daily, may be increased to 8 mg if needed and tolerated
Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use
Geriatric: Start at lower dose (4 mg) and titrate based on tolerability and response
Renal Impairment: Adjust dose based on renal function; typically cautious in severe impairment
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dose adjustment recommended but monitor closely
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed, bioavailability ~52-54%
Distribution: Widely distributed; blood-to-plasma ratio ~7.5
Metabolism: Primarily via CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 to active metabolite
Excretion: Renal and fecal; parent drug minimally excreted unchanged
Half Life: Approximately 7-8 hours for the active metabolite
Contraindications
- Urinary retention
- Gastric retention
- Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
- Hypersensitivity to fesoterodine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, urinary tract obstruction, or in the elderly due to increased risk of adverse effects
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Dry mouth (Frequent)
- Constipation (Frequent)
- Dizziness (Less common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Urinary retention (Rare)
- Angioedema (Very rare)
- Allergic reactions including rash, pruritus (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Other anticholinergic drugs
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Assess baseline urinary function, cognitive status, and for contraindications before initiation
Diagnoses:
- Risk for urinary retention
- Risk for dry mouth or constipation
Implementation: Administer once daily, with or without food, monitor for adverse effects
Evaluation: Evaluate reduction in urinary symptoms and monitor for adverse reactions
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take medication as prescribed, once daily
- Report any signs of urinary retention, severe dry mouth, or eye pain
- Avoid activities requiring alertness if experiencing dizziness
- Maintain hydration and fiber intake to reduce constipation
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None for fesoterodine
Genetic Factors: Metabolism may vary based on CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 activity
Lab Test Interference: None documented
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe dry mouth, visual disturbances, urinary retention, tachycardia
Treatment: Supportive care, discontinue drug, symptomatic treatment, and monitor vital signs
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light
Stability: Stable through expiration date when stored properly