Mirabegron
What is mirabegron?
Mirabegron – formerly available under the brand name Betmiga – is a prescription-only medicine used to treat the symptoms of an overactive bladder. It belongs to a group of medicines known as beta-3 adrenoceptor agonists[1].
What is mirabegron used for?
Mirabegron is used to treat several of the symptoms experienced with an overactive bladder. This can comprise one or more of the following symptoms; feeling a sudden and strong need to urinate, urinating more often than usual, and leaking urine before reaching the toilet[1].
How does mirabegron work?
Mirabegron works by relaxing the bladder smooth muscle during the storage phase of fill-void cycle expanding bladder capacity and allowing the bladder to hold more urine. This results in helping to reduce the number of times you need to urinate and the urgency you feel[1].
Who can take mirabegron?
Most adults can take mirabegron safely, however, it may not be suitable for people who have severe uncontrolled high blood pressure, serious liver or kidney problems, have an ECG abnormality called QT prolongation, who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are allergic to mirabegron or any of the other ingredients listed as part of this medicine. It’s important to always consult your doctor before starting this medicine[1].
Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before you start treatment and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].
How do you take mirabegron?
Mirabegron should be taken once a day, swallowed whole with water, at the same time each day. If you struggle to swallow tablets, do not crush,chew or split them – instead, talk to your doctor about a safer alternative. You can typically take mirabegron tablets with or without food[1].
What is the typical dosage of mirabegron?
The standard dose of mirabegron is 50mg once daily. For people with moderate kidney or liver problems, a reduced dose of 25mg once daily may be prescribed by your doctor. However, your individual circumstances will dictate the best treatment – your doctor will decide the most appropriate dose for you based on your health and response to treatment[1].
Can you stop taking mirabegron suddenly?
If you’re taking mirabegron, it’s important not to stop taking it without speaking to your doctor first. If you stop suddenly, your symptoms may return. Instead, your doctor can advise of the safest way of stopping treatment[1].
What should you do if you take too much mirabegron?
If you take more mirabegron than prescribed, you should contact your doctor, pharmacist or NHS 111 straight away as it can bring mild to serious side effects. The symptoms of overdose may include a fast heartbeat or high blood pressure, among others. Get immediate medical help if you feel unwell[1].
What should you do if you forget a dose of mirabegron?
If you forget a dose of mirabegron, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and take the next dose as usual – do not take a double dose[1].
What medicines should you avoid while taking mirabegron?
Mirabegron can interact with several other medicines, so it’s important to discuss your other medication, including any supplements, with your doctor. In particular, mirabegron can interact when taken with digoxin – increases exposure to digoxin, dabigatran – increases exposure to dabigatran, antidepressants (such as imipramine, antibiotics such as clarithromycin - increases exposure to mirabegron or antifungals such as ketoconazole - increases exposure to mirabegron[1].
Please note that this is not a complete list of interactions. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].
What are the side effects of mirabegron?
Some common side effects when you take mirabegron can include an increased heart rate, urinary tract infections, and headaches. You may also experience digestive problems like constipation, diarrhoea, and nausea[1].
Potentially more serious but rare side effects include raised or severe blood pressure, irregular heartbeat or allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling or difficulty breathing. Contact your doctor straight away if you experience any worrying, serious, or unusual symptoms[1].
You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1].
If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice.
The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2].
Frequently asked questions about mirabegron
How long does mirabegron take to work?
When you first start taking mirabegron it can take between four to eight weeks to feel the full benefit of the medicine. Contact your doctor if you are concerned that it is not working[1].
Can I drink alcohol while taking mirabegron?
You can drink some alcohol while taking mirabegron, but only in moderation. Alcohol may worsen bladder symptoms in some people, limiting the effectiveness of the medicine[1].
Is mirabegron a diuretic?
No, mirabegron doesn’t make you produce more urine – it helps your bladder hold more urine, reducing the symptoms of an overactive bladder[1].
Can I take mirabegron long term?
Yes, you can usually take mirabegron long term if it continues to help and you are not experiencing side effects[1].
Can mirabegron cause weight gain?
No, weight gain is not a common side effect of mirabegron. You should speak to your doctor if you experience unexplained weight gain while taking mirabegron[1].
Can I take mirabegron with food?
Yes, you can take mirabegron tablets with or without food[1].
Is mirabegron safe in pregnancy?
Mirabegron is not recommended during pregnancy. Speak to your doctor for advice and they will assess your personal circumstances to make the best and safest recommendation[1].
What if mirabegron does not work for me?
If your mirabegron prescription is not effective, your doctor may adjust your dose or suggest a different treatment[1].
Can I take herbal supplements with mirabegron?
Some supplements, herbal or otherwise, may interact with mirabegron and bring unwanted side effects. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking anything alongside mirabegron[1].
For the official NHS guide to mirabegron, visit their website.
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The information provided on this Medicines A-Z page is intended for general informational purposes only and was accurate as of June 2025. It is designed to offer simple, patient-friendly summaries of prescribed medications based on publicly available resources, including those from the National Health Service (NHS). This content does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a substitute for professional guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist.
Patients should always consult their healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any prescribed medication, and must inform them of any known allergies, medical conditions, or other medications being taken to ensure safe use. The inclusion of a medication on this page does not guarantee its availability, suitability, or approval for use in all cases, as prescribing decisions are made by healthcare professionals based on individual patient needs.
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