The effect of silodosin versus darifenacin versus a combination of both drugs on ureteric stent-related symptoms

Background
Ureteral stents represent a simple and effective method for renal and ureteric drainage and preservation of renal function owing to ureteric obstruction without external or visible devices.
Objectives
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of silodosin versus darifenacin and their combinations in reducing ureteral stent-related symptoms (SRS).
Patients and methods
A total of 178 patients who underwent ureteral stent stenting and developed SRS at first week were randomized into four groups (groups A–D) and assessed using a ureteral stent symptom questionnaire (USSQ) in each group. Group A used silodosin 8 mg, group B used darifenacin 7.5 mg, group C used both medications, and group D was the control group. All groups received the drugs for 14 days and then USSQ assessed in each group.
Results
USSQ score showed no statistically significant difference among the four groups after 1 week of ureteral stent application. At the end of the third week there was a significant decrease in USSQ score compared with group D. Comparing groups with each other showed that group C had the least USSQ score, indicating the best response.
Conclusion
The study showed significant improvement of ureteric SRSs in favor of combination of silodosin and darifenacin when compared with use only one of them. Both medications demonstrated a good safety and tolerability profile for medical improvement therapy in patients with ureteric stents.