There is increasing support for the view that nitric oxide is of physiological importance for lower urinary tract function, which should mean that the L-arginine/nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate system in this region is an interesting drug target. New information on the muscarinic receptor subtypes mediating contraction of the detrusor has emerged, and has been the basis for the development of 'bladder selective' antimuscarinic compounds. There is also new information on the possible use of potassium-channel openers in the management of detrusor overactivity.