Botox Injections in the Bladder

A few years back, my urologist recommended Botox injections for my bladder to provide me with some “overdue” pain relief.

Botulinum neurotoxin A (BoNT-A), has been used to treat several diseases and syndromes.  Recent studies of Botox (BoNT-A) suggest that it can “inhibit the release of peripheral neurotransmitters and inflammatory mediators from sensory nerves” in IC patients.  Botox (BoNT-A) injections have shown promising results; however, the results vary.  [National Center for Biotechnology Information]

My doctor did say that if the Botox did help with my bladder pain, this would not be a permanent fix.  Generally, the results from this treatment last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.  I was ready to try just about anything even if it meant repeating the treatment periodically.

Botox injections for the bladder required that my health insurance plan give prior authorization for this procedure.  The doctor’s office submitted the paperwork to the insurance plan.  A few days later, I received a call from the nurse.  She said that the insurance plan rejected the prior authorization request.  I had my doctor’s office appeal the denial.  My doctor had to have a telephone conference with the health insurance plan’s medical consultant to discuss why the Botox injections were an appropriate treatment option for me.  The denial was reversed.

The procedure was done in an outpatient facility.  My bladder spasms were horrible in the recovery room.  The doctor said that my symptoms should improve over the next few days.  He did mention that I may be at risk of needing to catheterize myself; luckily that did not happen.  The injections did not relieve any of my symptoms; however, just because this did not work for me does not mean others will not have success with the Botox.  Even though this was not my solution, I am still glad I gave it a try.

I am planning to add a page to my blog that lists options for IC patients.  I have tried a lot of procedures, medications and natural remedies, if not most, over the years.  I am going to continue to try to find my solution.  I will NOT give up.

If anyone has had Botox injections for IC, please share your comments!