Solifenacin
Solifenacin, sold as Vesicare, calms bladder muscle spasms to reduce sudden urges and frequent urination. Vesicare is the only solifenacin product listed, in 5 mg and 10 mg tablets.
Key points
- Solifenacin is an antimuscarinic, a medicine class that targets involuntary bladder contractions.
- Solifenacin may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurry vision; avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
- Tablets must be swallowed whole with water, never split, chewed or crushed.
How does Solifenacin work?
Solifenacin blocks the nerve signals that tell the bladder muscle to contract. By dampening those contractions, it gives the bladder more time to fill before sending an urgency signal, which reduces the sudden urges and frequent trips to the toilet that characterise overactive bladder. The two strengths, 5 mg and 10 mg, exist because treatment can begin at the lower dose and move up if symptoms persist. Vesicare is marketed by Astellas Pharma and listed under Bladder Health.
Further reading
What is solifenacin used for and how does it work?
Solifenacin is used for overactive bladder. It is an antimuscarinic that targets involuntary bladder contractions and blocks the nerve signals that tell the bladder muscle to contract.
How long does solifenacin take to work?
Solifenacin may take 1 to 2 weeks to work.
What are the side effects of solifenacin?
Solifenacin may cause dry mouth, constipation, dry eyes, blurred vision, headache or indigestion (dyspepsia). It may also cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving until you know how it affects you. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are worried.
Can solifenacin be taken with other medicines?
Solifenacin can interact with ketoconazole, erythromycin and anticholinergics. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before combining medicines.
Who should not take solifenacin?
Solifenacin is not suitable if you have urinary retention, gastric retention, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma or severe hepatic impairment. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Which solifenacin products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, solifenacin comes as Vesicare. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
How much does solifenacin cost in South Africa?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is solifenacin available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order solifenacin. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy solifenacin online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →