Prescription medications can ease overactive bladder symptoms. Supplements for overactive bladder may help, although little robust evidence supports their value.

An overactive bladder (OAB) causes a sudden and frequent urge to urinate, often leading to involuntary leakage.

While conventional treatments such as medications, bladder training, and lifestyle changes are the first line of treatment, some people turn to supplements as a natural way to manage symptoms.

Scientists have studied several supplements, including L-arginine and pumpkin seed extract, for their potential benefits in reducing bladder urgency, improving muscle control, and calming the bladder. Overall, the evidence supporting the value of these supplements is weak, but some people may find them helpful.

This article explores supplements for overactive bladder, their potential benefits, and other treatments for OAB.

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Managing OAB typically involves lifestyle changes, bladder retraining, and, sometimes, medications. Some people with OAB may find that natural supplements also ease their symptoms and support bladder health.

Although there is no overwhelming scientific evidence to support them, certain supplements could help reduce urinary urgency and other OAB symptoms. However, they should not replace prescribed medications, and people should talk with a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to their daily management plan.

L-arginine

L-arginine is an amino acid that helps improve blood flow and supports muscle tone. Studies show it may benefit bladder function and reduce the symptoms of OAB in rats.

However, further human studies are necessary.

Learn more about L-arginine.

Saw palmetto

Saw palmetto is a type of palm plant. The fruit is in herbal supplements, primarily for its potential to treat urinary and reproductive health issues.

A 2020 studyTrusted Source found that taking 320 milligrams (mg) of saw palmetto extract daily for 12 weeks eased urinary symptoms in males.

A later 2022 studyTrusted Source also studied the effects of 12 weeks of treatment with saw palmetto berry extract or a placebo, but this time on 72 females with urinary symptoms. The authors noted a notable decrease in symptoms for those taking the saw palmetto extract.

Learn more about saw palmetto.

Pumpkin seed extract

Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, pumpkin seeds or pumpkin seed oil may support bladder function and help reduce urinary frequency and urgency.

Learn more about pumpkin seed oil for OAB.

Gosha-jinki-gan

Gosha-jinki-gan (GJG) is a traditional Japanese herbal medicine comprising multiple herbs.

A 2019 study found that GJG eased OAB symptoms in 56 females within 4 weeks.

Healthcare professionals may suggest the following treatments to help manage OAB:

  • Behavioral therapies: Techniques such as bladder training, pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), and biofeedback can help strengthen bladder control and reduce symptoms.
  • Medications: Prescription medications, such asTrusted Source anticholinergics and beta-3 agonists, can help relax the bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of urgency and frequency.
  • Botox injections: This is an option for individuals with severe OAB who do not respond well to medications. Botox helps relax the bladder muscles, reducing the frequency of urgency and incontinence episodes.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, clinicians may suggest surgical interventions such as bladder augmentation or nerve stimulation when other treatments do not provide relief.
  • Lifestyle changes: Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, staying hydrated, and managing fluid intake throughout the day can help manage OAB symptoms.

Supplements provide a natural alternative for managing OAB, offering potential benefits without the reliance on prescription medications and their associated side effects.

Additionally, people can use supplements alongside lifestyle changes, medications, or therapies to enhance their OAB symptom management plan.

However, people must discuss any plans to use supplements with a healthcare professional to ensure they are safe and appropriate for their situation. Some supplements may interact with medications or have unintended side effects, so professional guidance is essential.

For individuals managing OAB, the combination of supplements, lifestyle changes, and traditional treatments can lead to improvements in symptoms.

With consistent management, many people experience better control over their symptoms and an improved quality of life over time.

Preventing OAB may not always be possible. However, healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support bladder function, may help.

Regular exercise, including pelvic floor strengthening, may preventTrusted Source the weakening of bladder muscles.

Supplements such as L-arginine, pumpkin seed extract, and gosha-jinki-gan may help manage the symptoms of OAB. Combined with therapies and medications, they offer a natural approach to improving bladder function.

However, individuals should confirm their suitability with a healthcare professional before taking new supplements.