Vital Notice: Continued Shortage of Tolterodine (Interpretin)
Patients who rely on Tolterodine (marketed as Interpretin) for overactive bladder symptoms, including frequent urination and urge incontinence, should be aware that a shortage will sadly continue throughout the year. Pharmaceutical companies have announced they are unable to resolve supply issues at this time.
Tolterodine is an anticholinergic medication. As an alternative,healthcare providers can consider prescribing Solifenacin,another anticholinergic medication with a comparable effect and cost. Solifenacin is currently available.
While Mirabegron (Betmiga) and Vibegron (Obgemsa) – Beta-3 agonists – are alternative medications, they are significantly more expensive and are not recommended as substitutes for Tolterodine.
It’s critically important to remember that all oral medications for urge incontinence have a limited effect, only slightly better than a placebo. Initial treatment should prioritize lifestyle adjustments and bladder/pelvic floor exercises. If a medication isn’t effective or causes side effects, it should be discontinued, highlighting the need for close monitoring by a healthcare professional.
Access to Tolterodine via Licensing:
The Swedish Medicines Agency has issued a decision allowing pharmacies to fulfill prescriptions for oral Tolterodine medications under a general license. This provision is in effect until January 31, 2026. Further details regarding licensing options can be found here: https://www.lakemedelsverket.se/sv/behandling-och-forskrivning/forskrivning/tillstand-for-utlamnande-vid-generell-licens/tolterodin–sarskilt-tillstand#hmainbody1
