Gemtesa is a prescription medication used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) in adults, addressing symptoms such as urinary urgency, urinary frequency, and urge incontinence. It contains the active ingredient vibegron, which works by relaxing the bladder muscles, allowing the bladder to fill more completely before triggering the urge to urinate. Like all medications, Gemtesa can cause side effects, and it's natural to be curious about their nature and severity. This article provides a detailed overview of the side effects associated with Gemtesa, with a particular focus on its potential impact on weight.
What is Gemtesa and How Does It Work?
Gemtesa (vibegron) is a brand-name drug prescribed to adults experiencing symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), including:
- Urge urinary incontinence: A sudden, intense urge to urinate that causes you to leak urine before you can get to a bathroom.
- Urgency: Needing to urinate right away.
- Urinary frequency: Needing to urinate often.
It is also indicated for the treatment of OAB in adult males taking medication for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
OAB is a condition characterized by a sudden urge to urinate, potentially leading to incontinence. These symptoms arise from involuntary bladder muscle contractions, signaling the brain to urinate even when the bladder isn't full. Gemtesa works by sending signals that relax the bladder muscles, increasing bladder capacity and reducing the frequency of urination.
Gemtesa comes as oral tablets that you swallow and is available in one strength: 75 milligrams (mg). The recommended dosage is once daily, with or without food, taken with a full glass of water. It is important to take Gemtesa exactly as your doctor prescribes. Stopping the drug could cause your overactive bladder symptoms to return.
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Common and Mild Side Effects of Gemtesa
Mild side effects have been reported with Gemtesa. These include:
- Dry mouth
- Upper respiratory tract infection, such as the common cold
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Mild urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Nausea
In most cases, these side effects should be temporary and easily managed. However, if symptoms are ongoing or bothersome, consulting with a doctor or pharmacist is recommended. Do not stop taking Gemtesa unless your doctor recommends it.
Serious Side Effects of Gemtesa
Serious side effects have been reported with Gemtesa, including urinary retention. In rare cases, Gemtesa may cause a serious allergic reaction called angioedema, which can lead to swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat and make it hard to breathe. If you notice these symptoms, stop taking Gemtesa and call 911 or get emergency care right away.
If you develop serious side effects while taking Gemtesa, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life-threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Gemtesa and Weight Changes: What the Research Says
Weight gain and weight loss weren’t reported in studies of Gemtesa. However, you may experience changes in weight from other causes such as other medications you’re taking, or from certain side effects of Gemtesa.
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Does Gemtesa Cause Weight Gain?
There is no significant evidence linking Gemtesa to weight gain. Weight changes weren’t reported in the drug’s studies. While there are anecdotal reports of weight changes associated with Gemtesa online, these are likely instances of correlation, not causation. It's tempting to trust these anecdotal stories, but it’s hard to rule out other factors, like lifestyle and diet.
It's important to note that having overweight or obesity can worsen OAB symptoms, which the drug is prescribed to treat.
Does Gemtesa Cause Weight Loss?
No, you shouldn’t experience weight loss from taking Gemtesa. Weight loss wasn’t a reported side effect in Gemtesa’s clinical trials.
However, it’s possible to experience weight loss from other side effects of Gemtesa. For example, the drug may cause nausea or diarrhea. If you have severe nausea, you may not be able to eat as you typically would. In turn, this may cause weight loss. In addition, severe diarrhea may also lead to weight loss.
Other Potential Side Effects of Gemtesa
Headache
Taking Gemtesa can cause headaches. This was one of the most common side effects of the drug reported by people taking it in studies. For mild headaches, your doctor may suggest ways to ease your symptoms, such as taking an OTC pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, applying a cold compress to your forehead, avoiding loud noises, and maintaining regular meal and sleep routines. If your headache is severe or ongoing, call your doctor right away.
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Urinary Tract Infection
Gemtesa can increase your risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). This was a common but mild side effect of Gemtesa reported in studies. Symptoms include frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, urgency to urinate, and blood in urine. If you have symptoms of a UTI while taking Gemtesa, call your doctor.
Urinary Retention
Gemtesa treatment may cause urinary retention, a condition in which you have trouble emptying your bladder. This is a rare but serious side effect of Gemtesa reported in the drug’s studies. Symptoms of urinary retention include abdominal pain or discomfort, difficulty urinating, and an urgent need to urinate. Tell your doctor if you have any symptoms of urinary retention.
Nausea
Gemtesa can cause nausea. This was a common but mild side effect of the drug reported in studies. Nausea is a mild side effect that’s usually temporary and should ease as you continue taking Gemtesa. For mild nausea, your doctor may offer suggestions to manage it, such as avoiding nausea triggers (strong odors, spicy foods, or heavy meals).
Constipation
It’s possible for Gemtesa to cause constipation. However, this wasn’t a commonly reported side effect in the drug’s clinical trials. Symptoms of constipation may include straining during bowel movements, hard stool, and less frequent bowel movements. If you experience constipation during your treatment with Gemtesa, talk with your doctor.
Managing Your Weight While Taking Gemtesa
While Gemtesa itself is not directly linked to weight gain, adopting healthy habits can help maintain a healthy weight:
- Eat a balanced diet: Fill your plate with whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains. Amy Woodman, RD, emphasizes the importance of eating enough protein and fiber. She says beans and lentils offer both.
- Exercise regularly: "Keep moving in ways that feel safe," Dr. Sparacino says.
- Stay hydrated: Healthy hydration helps with weight maintenance and bladder health.
- Don’t skip meals: Going for too long without eating might leave you more likely to opt for chips or sweets instead of a healthy, balanced meal.
Gemtesa Alternatives for OAB
Gemtesa isn’t your only option for treating OAB symptoms, though it is one of the most well-tolerated due to its mild side effects. Gemtesa alternatives that may be a good fit for you may include the following:
- Myrbetriq (mirabegron): Like Gemtesa, Myrbetriq is not associated with weight gain. They have similar side effect profiles, but Myrbetriq is known to cause an increase in blood pressure.
- Anticholinergics: This type of drug works by blocking a specific neurotransmitter, which in turn stops involuntary muscle movement in the bladder. Like Gemtesa, anticholinergics do not directly cause weight gain. Their common side effects include constipation, dizziness, and dry mouth.
Important Considerations Before Taking Gemtesa
Before starting Gemtesa, discuss your health history with your doctor. Gemtesa may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. Be sure to talk with your doctor if any of the following apply to you:
- Liver problems
- Kidney problems
- Bladder problems, including difficulty emptying your bladder
- Previous allergic reaction to Gemtesa or a similar drug
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Alcohol consumption
Gemtesa Drug Interactions
Gemtesa can interact with the heart drug digoxin (Lanoxin). It’s usually safe to take digoxin with Gemtesa, but your doctor may monitor you more closely during treatment.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
You may have questions about Gemtesa and your treatment plan. Here are some example questions to get you started:
- Do any of my medical conditions raise my risk of side effects from Gemtesa?
- If I frequently get urinary tract infections (UTIs), is it safe for me to take Gemtesa?
- What should I do if my OAB symptoms worsen while I’m taking Gemtesa?