First North American experience of propiverine use in children with overactive bladder

Introduction: In 2017, propiverine was approved in Canada for overactive bladder (OAB) in adults and children. There is, however, scarce data on its efficacy and tolerability in the pediatric population. Our primary objective was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of propiverine as a treatment for pediatric OAB. Our secondary objective was to compare propiverine to molecules already investigated in historical cohorts. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database and reviewed 58 patients who received propiverine since 2017. Efficacy and tolerability were assessed through voiding diaries, postvoid residuals (PVR), changes in the number of incontinence and urgency episodes (grade 1 to 3), and on reported adverse events. Results: In total, 58 patients (37 boys) initiated treatment at a mean age of 9.5 +/- 3.2 years. Patients were on propiverine for an average of 15.9 +/- 12.4 months. Mean bladder capacity increased from 120 ml to 216 ml, and % expected bladder capacity (%EBC) increased from 37% to 59%. The average increased rate of %EBC was 0.5% per month (p<0.001). Of the 58 patients, eight stopped the medication completely without symptom recurrence, 21 were still on medication, and six were on dose-tapering. Due to side effects, seven interrupted their treatment. Compared to molecules used in our service, propiverine offered comparable efficacy and tolerability. Our study had limitations, including the absence of a placebo group and its retrospective design. Conclusions: Propiverine appears to be an efficient and safe option for treating OAB in children and is approved as such.