From the Research
Yes, certain IV antibiotics can cause acute urinary retention as a side effect, and it is essential to monitor patients for this potential complication, especially those with pre-existing conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia or neurological disorders. The most recent and highest quality study on urinary retention, published in 2019 1, provides an overview of the common causes of urinary retention, including acute and chronic retention, and highlights the importance of prompt evaluation and treatment. Although this study does not specifically mention IV antibiotics as a cause of urinary retention, another study published in 2008 2 discusses drug-induced urinary retention and mentions that various medications, including some antibiotics, can cause this condition.
Some antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and some beta-lactams, have been associated with urinary retention due to their anticholinergic properties, local inflammation, or neurotoxic effects 2. Patients taking these medications should be closely monitored for symptoms of urinary retention, including lower abdominal discomfort, inability to urinate, and a distended bladder. If a patient develops urinary retention while on IV antibiotics, healthcare providers should consider changing to an alternative antibiotic if possible, implementing intermittent catheterization if needed, and addressing any underlying risk factors.
Key points to consider in the management of urinary retention include:
- Prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent complications such as kidney damage or urosepsis
- Measurement of postvoid residual (PVR) volume to diagnose and monitor urinary retention
- Catheterization to relieve obstruction and mitigate underlying causes
- Consideration of alpha-blockers to improve voiding trials and reduce the risk of further retention
- Monitoring and management of underlying conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or neurological disorders, in conjunction with relevant subspecialists.