Urinary retention, also known as ischuria, is the inability to completely empty the bladder. The condition may be acute, appearing suddenly and lasting a short time, or chronic, in which patients can urinate, but struggle to fully empty their bladder.

There are a variety of possible causes for urinary retention, including weak bladder muscles; nerve problems; a blockage in the urethra; benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); or certain medications. In chronic cases, patients may be unaware they have the condition until other problems manifest, such as urinary incontinence or a urinary tract infection.

Urinary retention is characterized by an intermittent flow of urine, straining to urinate, a frequent need to urinate, and an inability to empty the bladder.

Treatment may focus on treating any underlying medical conditions, but medication is also available to treat urinary retention itself. Other treatment options include placing a urinary catheter into the bladder or surgery. Drug classes commonly prescribed to treat urinary retention are urological products.