Betmiga

• Betmiga is a taken to relieve the symptoms of an overactive bladder
• Betmiga contains the active ingredient mirabegron
• Only one dose needs to be taken each day, with the effect of the medication lasting all day
• Betmiga works to relax the muscles around the bladder so that the bladder can hold more urine, without feelings of urgency or episodes of incontinence
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

Betmiga is prescribed for symptoms of an overactive bladder. When the muscles of the bladder are overactive, they prevent the bladder from filling properly. This leads to the bladder holding less urine, and also means that you may need to empty your bladder more frequently or with great urgency. Some people also have episodes of urinary incontinence. These symptoms can unfortunately have a negative impact on your quality of life and what you feel able to do.

Betmiga relaxes the muscles around the bladder, so that the bladder is able to fill properly. Having a greater bladder capacity means that you need to pass urine less frequently. It also prevents the episodes of urgency and may help to reduce episodes of incontinence. This may give you a feeling of greater freedom and more comfort in your everyday activities.

Betmiga is a tablet that should be swallowed whole with some water. It must not be chewed, crushed, or divided as this will prevent the benefits of the tablet from lasting all day.

Betmiga can be taken with or without food.

Try to take Betmiga at the same time each day as this will not only lead to a better effect, but will also help you remember to take it.

Betmiga is available in two different strength tablets: 25mg and 50mg.

The usual dose of Betmiga is 50mg once a day. However, people with liver or kidney disease may be advised to take 25mg daily.

Like all medications, Betmiga can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• A racing heartbeat
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Constipation
• Diarrhoea.

These side effects are likely to settle down, but if they persist or become troublesome you should speak to your doctor for further advice.

Occasionally, Betmiga can increase the incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs or water infections). If you think you have a urinary tract infection you should speak to your doctor who can prescribe appropriate treatment.

If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Betmiga may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your doctor if you:

• Have an abnormal heart rhythm
• Have high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Have liver disease
• Have kidney disease
• Have bladder obstruction
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Some medications can interact with Betmiga. You may be advised that Betmiga will not suit you if you already take:

• Certain antibiotic or antifungal medications
• Metoprolol
• Heart rhythm medications
• Certain antidepressants.

However, as many people will still be able to take Betmiga in combination with other medications it is still important to speak to your prescriber about the medicines you already take.

Because Betmiga may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Betmiga will not interact with them. 

Once prescribed, Betmiga will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription, allowing you to pick the medication up at your convenience.