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Getting the latest healthcare news for you

A new study finds mirabegron, a beta-3 agonist typically used in adults, is both safe and effective for children with bladder dysfunction. Two-thirds of the 192 kids in the study saw at least partial symptom improvement, and side effects were mostly mild and resolved after stopping the drug. The findings support mirabegron as a viable treatment option in pediatric urology.
A retrospective Canadian study published in the Journal of Pediatric Urology found that mirabegron — a beta-3 adrenergic agonist — shows meaningful promise for children struggling with lower urinary tract dysfunction. Researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto reviewed records of 192 children (median age 10.2 years) who received mirabegron between 2018 and 2024, finding that 65% experienced at least partial symptom improvement, with a median time to improvement of about 7 months.
The drug was used for both neurogenic and nonneurogenic bladder conditions, and its effectiveness wasn't influenced by age, sex, diagnosis type, or concurrent medications — suggesting broad applicability across pediatric patients with bladder dysfunction.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Bladder dysfunction in children can significantly impact quality of life, and treatment options have historically been limited. This study adds meaningful real-world evidence that mirabegron is a low-risk, effective option worth considering in pediatric urological care.