Imidafenacin, a novel antimuscarinic agent, is alternative to antimuscarinic agents in patients with overactive bladder syndrome:An updated systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Purpose Previous study included limited number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and compared limited parameters post the treatment of imidafenacin and other anticholinergic drugs (ADs) for overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) and controversy about the superiority of those ADs still remains. We aim to update the evidence and provide better clinical guidance. Methods A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, ClinicalTrial.gov, and Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted from January 2007 to April 2019. Meta-analysis of all published RCTs comparing imidafenacin with other ADs in patients with OAB was performed. The primary outcomes were the changes in OAB symptoms and OAB Symptom Score (OABSS). Secondary outcomes included adverse events (AEs) and dropout rate related to AEs. Results A total of 6 studies including 7 RCTs involving 1,430 patients with mean follow-up of 23.43 weeks were included. All ADs improved OAB symptoms. In regard to efficacy, those drugs had similar efficacy in voids, urgency episodes, urgency incontinence episodes, incontinence episodes and in OABSS. However, Imidafenacin had a better performance in the reduction of nocturia episodes (MD=-0.24, 95%CI -0.44 to-0.04, P=0.02). Moreover, Imidafenacin was associated with statistically lower dry mouth rate (RR=0.87, 95%CI 0.75-1.00, P=0.04), lower constipation rate (RR=0.68, 95%CI 0.50-0.93, P=0.01) and lower AE-related withdrawal rate (RR=0.51, 95%CI 0.29-0.89, P=0.02). There was no significant difference in terms of other complications. Conclusions In conclusion, Imidafenacin was comparable with other ADs in the treatment of OAB. Moreover, imidafenacin presented lower dry mouth rate, lower constipation rate and higher adherence and persistence.