Botox solution for bladder problems

The treatment has been licensed for use in the UK in the wake of work by experts in Sheffield to examine the effectiveness of injections in relieving symptoms.

A study involving 1,100 patients around the world found the injections were three times more likely to relieve symptoms after 12 weeks compared to drug therapy.

Overactive bladder symptoms are estimated to affect around 19 per cent of the population of all ages, and can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Prof Chris Chapple, consultant urologist at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, welcomed the “life-changing” therapy’s approval.

“This means we can begin giving our patients an effective treatment if lifestyle and dietary interventions fail which may help them regain control of their bladder for up to six months,” he said.

“Symptoms can have a shocking effect on patients’ lives, taking their toll on patients’ social and mental well-being to the point where many face huge disruptions at work or are unable to attempt leisurely outings without military-precision planning.”