Comparison of Mirabegron and Tamsulosin in Alleviating Symptoms from Ureteral Stents: Insights from a Single-Center Institutional Study

Abstract

Background: Indwelling ureteric stents commonly induce complications that significantly affect patients' quality of life. Despite the widespread use of pharmacological interventions such as alpha-blockers and anti-muscarinic agents, their efficacy remains debatable. The beta-3 agonist Mirabegron has emerged as a potential alternative, yet comparative studies with Tamsulosin within a single institutional setting are lacking. Methodology: This prospective observational study enrolled 60 patients with unilateral DJ stents following various urological procedures. Patients were divided into Mirabegron and Tamsulosin groups based on consultant preference. Symptom assessment was performed using the USSQ questionnaire at 7 th and 14 th post-operative days. Results: Both Mirabegron and Tamsulosin effectively reduced urinary, pain, additional, working, and general health scores. Mirabegron demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing pain and improving working health scores compared to Tamsulosin. However, no significant difference was observed in urinary, general, sexual, and additional scores between the two drugs. Conclusion: Mirabegron, particularly at a dosage of 25 mg once daily, emerges as a promising option for relieving ureteral stent-related symptoms, especially pain and working health score. However, further research is needed to optimize treatment strategies and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action.