Which medication class is commonly used to treat overactive bladder?

Anticholinergics are commonly used to treat overactive bladder because they work by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in bladder contraction. By inhibiting the involuntary contractions of the bladder muscle, these medications help reduce the urgency and frequency of urination, which are hallmark symptoms of overactive bladder. This class of medications is effective for managing the condition and is widely prescribed due to its favorable profile in alleviating symptoms.

Other classes of medications like beta-blockers, antidepressants, and diuretics do not directly address the underlying issue of bladder hyperactivity and are generally not indicated for the treatment of overactive bladder. Beta-blockers primarily manage cardiovascular conditions, antidepressants have varied uses including mood disorders but do not target bladder spasms, and diuretics increase urine output rather than reducing the urgency or frequency of urination.