Key facts about Gemtesa
What is Gemtesa?
Gemtesa is the brand name for vibegron, a medication used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) in adults. It belongs to a class of drugs called beta-3 adrenergic agonists, which help relax the bladder muscle, increasing its storage capacity and reducing symptoms such as urgency, frequency, and urge urinary incontinence.
What dosages is Gemtesa available in?
Gemtesa is available as an oral tablet in the following strength:
- 75 mg
What is Gemtesa used for?
Gemtesa is used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) in adults or men with OAB who are taking medicine for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It helps manage symptoms such as urge urinary incontinence (leaking of urine), urgency (sudden need to urinate), and frequent urination. It is not used to treat other types of urinary conditions unrelated to OAB.
How does Gemtesa work?
Gemtesa (vibegron) works by relaxing the bladder muscle (detrusor muscle) through a mechanism that blocks beta-3 adrenergic receptors. This helps the bladder hold more urine and reduces the strong urge to urinate. As a result, Gemtesa helps manage symptoms of overactive bladder, such as frequent urination, urgency, and urge incontinence.
How do I take Gemtesa?
The recommended dose of Gemtesa is 75 mg taken by mouth once daily, with or without food.
- Take Gemtesa at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your body.
- Swallow the tablet whole with water.
- Crushing Option: If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, you may crush it and mix it with one tablespoon of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately with a glass of water. Do not store or save the mixture for later use.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding how and when to take Gemtesa.
Is it safe for me to take Gemtesa?
Gemtesa is generally safe and effective for most people when taken as prescribed. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Do not take Gemtesa if you:
- Have a known hypersensitivity to vibegron (the active ingredient) or any of the ingredients in Gemtesa
- Are taking medications that may interact with Gemtesa, particularly certain CYP3A inhibitors (always check with your doctor)
Use Gemtesa with caution if you have:
- Severe liver or kidney problems
- Bladder outlet obstruction or difficulty urinating
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure (consult your doctor)
Always inform your healthcare provider about your full medical history and all medications you’re taking before starting Gemtesa.
Gemtesa Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Gemtesa (vibegron) may include:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Urinary tract infection
- Nasopharyngitis
Always contact your healthcare provider if you experience side effects that are persistent, bothersome, or severe
Gemtesa Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects with Gemtesa are rare, but you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Inability to empty the bladder (urinary retention)
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Painful or burning urination
- Blood in the urine
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of angioedema)
Always notify your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual or severe symptoms while taking Gemtesa
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Gemtesa
Gemtesa (vibegron) may interact with other medications. Let your healthcare provider know if you are taking:
- Anticholinergic drugs – may increase the risk of urinary retention when used with Gemtesa.
- Other medications for overactive bladder – combining them may increase side effects such as dry mouth or constipation.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers – although Gemtesa is not extensively metabolized by CYP enzymes, it’s still important to report all medications.
- Over-the-counter products – especially those with anticholinergic effects (e.g., antihistamines like diphenhydramine).
Always inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products you use.
Who makes Gemtesa?
Urovant Sciences
Is Gemtesa safe in pregnancy?
Gemtesa (vibegron) should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are limited human data on the use of Gemtesa in pregnant women, and animal studies have shown some risk. Always consult your healthcare provider before using Gemtesa if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
