Substances That Can Effect Continence

Substance

Bladder

Bowel

Effect

Caffeine

(Cola, Mountain Dew®, Chocolate, Coffee, Tea)

X

X

Bladder irritant (diuretic) may cause bladder contractions, urine flow.

Bowel stimulant may increase bowel movements.

Artificial sweeteners (NutraSweet®, Aspartame)

X

X

Bladder irritant may cause bladder contractions and urine flow.

May increase production of “gas” in bowel and urgent bowel movements.

Alcohol

(Beer, Wine, Liquor)

X

Bladder irritant (diuretic) may cause bladder contractions and urine flow.

Alcohol use in evening may increase chance of night time incontinence.

Nicotine 

(Smoked, Chewed, “Patch”)

X

Bladder irritant may cause bladder contractions and urine flow.

Smoker’s cough increases Stress Incontinence.

Diuretics “water pills”

(Lasix®, Maxide®, Hydrochlorothiazide)

X

More urine is produced leading to frequency and urgency.

Sedatives or Muscle Relaxants

(Valium®, Librium®, Ativan®)

X

More urine is produced leading to frequency and urgency.

Sedation and drowsiness occur.  May not be aware of the need to void.

Narcotics

(Percocet®, Demerol®, Morphine®, Oxycontin®)

X

Sedation and drowsiness occur.

Bladder is relaxed and may retain urine leading to Overflow Incontinence.

Lack of concern about the need to void.

Issues starting and controlling urine flow.

Antihistamines 

(Benadryl®)

Anticholinergics

(Pro-Banthine®)

Antipsychotics/Anti-Depressants

(Elavil®, Prolixin®, Haldol®, Prozac®, Wellbutrin®)

Calcium Channel Blockers

(Calan®, Procardia®, Cardiazem®)

X

Bladder is relaxed and may retain urine leading to Overflow Incontinence.

Bladder may produce more urine.

Issues starting and controlling urine flow.

Urine may be leaked without control.

Over The Counter Cold Remedies 

(Nyquil®, Sudafed®, Long Acting Nasal Sprays, Cold & Flu tablets)

X

Varied effects may include:  urine retention, difficulty in controlling the flow of urine, Overflow Incontinence and leakage.

Other Medications:

Cardura®, Hytrin®

X

Bladder control is relaxed leading to Stress Incontinence leakage (incontinence while laughing, coughing, sneezing, or during physical exertion).