Darifenacin: first M3 receptor

Darifenacin (Emselex) is the first antimuscarinic agent to target the M3 receptor that is associated with detrusor muscle contraction. In our New products review Steve Chaplin presents the clinical data relating to its efficacy and adverse effects, and Professor Christopher Chapple comments on its place in the treatment of overactive bladder. The International ContinenceSociety defines overactive blad-der (OAB) as urgency, with or with-out urge incontinence, usually with frequency and nocturia.1 The prevalence of OAB in the UK is about 20 per cent overall2,3 and increases with age.4 OAB has a marked impact on quality of life.5 A European survey found that many people with OAB symptoms have not been formally diagnosed and, though half of those diagnosed have been prescribed medication at some time, only one-quarter con-tinue to take it.2 The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) clinical guideline for the management of urinary inconti-nence in women includes the man