Camille P. Vaughan, MD, MS, presents “Behavioral Compared with Drug Therapy for Overactive Bladder Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease.”

How to cite: Vaughan, Camille P. Behavioral Compared with Drug Therapy for Overactive Bladder Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease. Grand Rounds in Urology. Published July 24, 2025. Accessed Mar 2026. https://grandroundsinurology.com/behavioral-compared-with-drug-therapy-for-overactive-bladder-symptoms-in-parkinsons-disease/

Behavioral Compared with Drug Therapy for Overactive Bladder Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease – Summary

Diane K. Newman, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, Adjunct Professor of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, introduces Camille P. Vaughan, MD, MS, Division Director, Emory University Department of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia. In this 27-minute presentation, Dr. Vaughan shares results from the BOSS-PD randomized trial comparing behavioral and drug therapy for overactive bladder (OAB) in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Conducted across four VA centers, the non-inferiority trial evaluates whether behavioral therapy is as effective as solifenacin (VESIcare®), an FDA-approved OAB drug. The behavioral intervention includes pelvic floor muscle training, urge suppression techniques, mindfulness strategies, guidance on fluid and bowel management, and the continuous use of bladder diaries.

Primary outcomes were measured using validated tools such as the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Overactive Bladder (ICIQ-OAB) symptom score. Both groups showed significant symptom reduction, improved quality of life, and decreased symptom bother, with behavioral therapy proving non-inferior to drug therapy.

Plans are underway for a subsequent SMART (Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial) incorporating mirabegron (brand name: Myrbetriq®) and combination therapy to help identify predictors of treatment response.

The presentation concludes with a thoughtful, engaging, and informative Q&A conversation between Dr. Newman and Dr. Vaughan.