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Medicines That May Cause Urinary Incontinence in Men

Prescription and nonprescription medicines can cause involuntary loss of urine. The degree of loss of bladder control will vary from person to person.

Medicines that may make urinary incontinence worse include:

  • Diuretics, such as furosemide (Lasix) or hydrochlorothiazide combinations (for example, Lopressor).
  • Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl).
  • Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or doxepin (Silenor).
  • Alpha-blockers, such as doxazosin (Cardura) or terazosin (Hytrin).
  • Sedatives, such as chlordiazepoxide (for example, Librium) or diazepam (for example, Valium).
  • Narcotics, such as codeine or meperidine (for example, Demerol).
  • Calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil (for example, Calan) or diltiazem (for example, Cardizem).
  • Nonprescription medicines such as diet, allergy, and cold medicines.

If you notice a urinary problem after taking a prescription or nonprescription medicine, talk with your doctor about another medicine you might use.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology
Last Revised July 8, 2010

Last Revised: July 8, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology

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