Mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine in treating overactive bladder

Int Urol Nephrol. 2023 Mar;55(3):489-501. doi: 10.1007/s11255-022-03434-8. Epub 2022 Dec 7.

Abstract

Overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) has made increasing progress in mechanism and treatment research. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a common complementary therapy for OAB, and it has been found to be effective. However, the intervention mechanism of TCM in the treatment of OAB is still unclear. The aim of this review is to consolidate the current knowledge about the mechanism of TCM: acupuncture, moxibustion, herbs in treating OAB, and the animal models of OAB commonly used in TCM. Finally, we put forward the dilemma of TCM treatment of OAB and discussed the insufficiency and future direction of TCM treatment of OAB.

Keywords: Lower urinary tract disease; Mechanism; Overactive Bladder; Therapy; Traditional Chinese medicine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Therapy*
  • Animals
  • Medicine, Chinese Traditional
  • Models, Animal
  • Urinary Bladder, Overactive* / therapy