Medication for bedwetting child

Many parents are unsure what the options are when their child wets the bed. Should you immediately start bedwetting medication for your child, or is a bedwetting alarm a better first step? Bedwetting is not only annoying for the child, but it can also cause insecurity and a negative self-image. Fortunately, there are several solutions available to help your child! Read more about the bedwetting alarm, behavior modification and bedwetting medication.

When is bedwetting a problem?

In young children, bedwetting is still very common. From the age of 5 years old, you could say that action may be required to do something about it. If your child still wets the bed, it may be wise to look into possible solutions. Often the bedwetting alarm is initially recommended. If at a slightly later age such as 7 years old this does not have a desired effect, a doctor may decide to prescribe bedwetting medication for your child.

Bedwetting medication or bedwetting alarm?

The bedwetting alarm is often the first choice and most recommended method in dealing with bedwetting. This method teaches the child to wake up to urges from the bladder. If the bedwetting alarm does not produce results after several months (be sure to give this enough time, an average bedwetting alarm training takes 4 months) then the doctor may consider medication for bedwetting. Medication can be especially helpful during situations such as sleepovers, vacation or school camp, where bedwetting can be extra stressful for a child. This temporarily stops bedwetting.

Minrin, most frequently prescribed bedwetting medication

The most commonly prescribed bedwetting medication for your child is Minrin. This drug is a synthetic form of the body's own hormone ADH. Normally, this hormone causes less urine to be produced at night. In some children, this does not yet work optimally, which can lead to a full bladder and bedwetting.

Minrin reduces urine production during the night. As a result, the bladder is more likely to be able to hold urine throughout the night. This medication is available in tablet form and as a melting tablet (Minrin Melt).

Minrin Melt

Minrin Melt in the newest version of Minrin, it is designed specifically for children. The tablet melts under the tongue and thus does not need to be taken with water. This makes taking this bedwetting medication much easier for the child, especially for children who have difficulty swallowing. The use of Minrin Melt is ideal for occasional situations, but can also be prescribed for longer periods of time as part of the treatment.

Bedwetting medication for an overactive bladder

There are also children who do not have problems with urine production, but with an overactive bladder. In this case, a doctor may also prescribe Oxybutnine. This bedwetting medication for your child causes the bladder to relax better and contract less quickly. As a result, there is less urge to urinate.

For children with an overactive bladder, bladder training is often started first, practicing holding up urine during the day. Medication such as Oxybutnine can support this process by increasing bladder volume.

Note that a side effect of Oxybutnine is decreased perspiration, which can lead to overheating, especially in high temperatures. If the temperature exceeds 30º Celsius, it is advised to temporarily discontinue this medication or take additional measures.

Furosemide, another option

A more unfamiliar and less used form of bedwetting medication for a child is Furosemide (Also known as Lasix). This medication causes the body to expel more fluids during the day so that less urine is produced at night. This method is used only in specific cases and always under the strict supervision of a doctor.

Medication for bedwetting: always see your doctor first

Although there are various forms of bedwetting medication for the child, it is hugely important not to start this on your own initiative. Always consult the family doctor first. According to official guidelines, behavioral solutions such as the bedwetting alarm are always considered first before moving on to medication.

A good treatment plan can make the difference between permanent bedwetting and a dry night. In most cases, only the bedwetting alarm is needed to potty train your child, therefore medication comes even after a bedwetting alarm seems to have no effect. Always consult your doctor carefully.

Conclusion on bedwetting medication

Bedwetting can cause a lot of stress for children, fortunately there are several effective solutions available. The bedwetting alarm remains the first choice, but if this does not work, bedwetting medication such as Minrin, Minrin Melt, Oxybutnine or Furosemide can offer a solution. Therefore, always get proper advice from a medical professional.

Unlike medication that temporarily suppresses the bedwetting problem, a bedwetting alarm helps to keep changing the underlying behavior. For this very reason, specialists and general practitioners recommend that, whenever possible, a period of time with a bedwetting alarm should always be tried before medication is used.