From the Guidelines
Yes, major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders can potentially cause urinary frequency. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, as frequent urination can be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions. In some cases, medications used to treat depression and anxiety, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline or paroxetine, may also contribute to urinary frequency 1. However, it is essential to note that any changes to medication or treatment plans should only be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
Key Considerations
- Lifestyle Modifications: Managing fluid intake, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining a healthy weight may also help alleviate symptoms of frequent urination associated with depression and anxiety 1.
- Physiological Effects: Depression and anxiety can have physiological effects, such as impaired platelet functioning, hypercortisol-emia, and heightened plasma and urinary catecholamines, which may contribute to urinary frequency 1.
- Screening and Assessment: Routine screening for anxiety and depression is crucial, and healthcare providers should use valid and reliable tools to assess symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment strategy 1.
Important Factors
- Medication Side Effects: Medications used to treat depression and anxiety can contribute to urinary frequency, and healthcare providers should carefully monitor patients for these side effects 1.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Frequent urination can be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions, and healthcare providers should conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out other potential causes 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Urinary Frequency3%1% Urinary Frequency3%1%2%0%—— The answer is: Yes, major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders can cause urinary frequency, as evidenced by the reported incidence of urinary frequency in patients with these conditions 2, 2.
- Key points:
- Urinary frequency was reported in 3% of patients with MDD and 1% of patients on placebo.
- Urinary frequency was also reported in patients with anxiety disorders, including OCD, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
From the Research
Association between MDD, Anxiety Disorders, and Urinary Frequency
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders have been linked to various physical symptoms, including urinary frequency 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- Studies have shown that individuals with MDD and anxiety disorders are more likely to experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), including overactive bladder (OAB), urinary incontinence, and nocturia 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- The relationship between MDD, anxiety disorders, and urinary frequency is complex, with evidence suggesting that anxiety and depression can contribute to the development and maintenance of LUTS 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Specific Findings
- A systematic review found that the frequency of bladder dysfunction in patients with depression was lower than that in patients with Parkinson's disease or stroke, but higher than that in age-matched controls 3
- A meta-analysis found that individuals with urinary incontinence had significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety than those without urinary incontinence 4
- A cross-sectional study found that anxiety and depression were associated with OAB, nocturia, and stress urinary incontinence in women, and with OAB, moderate or severe LUTS, and sexual dysfunction in men 5
- Another cross-sectional study found that anxiety and depression were associated with urinary incontinence, particularly mixed urinary incontinence, and that the use of antidepressants was associated with an increased risk of urinary incontinence 6
- A longitudinal study found that anxiety and depression were associated with the development and maintenance of urge incontinence in women, and that a psychological model of urge incontinence should include emotional factors 7