Oxybutynin is used to relieve the symptoms associated with urinary incontinence (inability to control the bladder) or urinary frequency.

Oxybutynin Facts
Brand names (manufacturers):
Ditropan (Alza); Ditropan XL (Alza); oxybutynin (various manufacturers)

Type of drug: Antispasmodic

Ingredient: Oxybutynin

Dosage form: Tablets (5 mg);
extended-release tablets (5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg); oral syrup (5 mg per 5-mL spoonful)

Storage: Store all forms of this medication at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Do not freeze the syrup form of this medication.

Treatment

Oxybutynin can be taken either on an empty stomach with water only or, to reduce stomach irritation, with food or milk (as directed by your doctor).

Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not crush or chew them.

Measure each dose of the oral syrup carefully with a specially designed 5-mL measuring spoon. An ordinary kitchen teaspoon is not accurate enough.

If you miss a dose of oxybutynin, take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the next dose of oxybutynin.


Side Effects

Minor: Bloating, blurred vision, constipation, decreased sweating, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, or weakness. These side effects should disappear as your body adjusts to
the medication.

This medication can cause increased sensitivity of your eyes to sunlight. Sunglasses may help relieve the discomfort caused by bright lights.

To relieve constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet (fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, bran, and whole-grain breads) and exercise (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).

If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down for a while; get up slowly from a sitting or reclining position; and be careful on stairs.

To avoid dizziness or light-headedness when you stand, contract and relax the muscles of your legs for a few moments before rising. Do this by pressing one foot into the floor while raising the other foot slightly, alternating feet so that you are "pumping" your legs in a pedaling motion.

To help relieve mouth dryness, chew sugarless gum or suck on ice chips or a piece of hard candy.

Major: Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or particularly bothersome. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about decreased sexual ability, difficult or painful urination, eye pain, itching, palpitations, rapid rise in body temperature, or skin rash.

Interactions

Oxybutynin may interact with several medications:
  • Oxybutynin can cause extreme drowsiness when combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants (such as antihistamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepine tranquilizers, narcotics, and pain medications).

  • The side effects of oxybutynin may be increased if taken with tricyclic antidepressants, glycopyrrolate, dicyclomine, or ipratropium.
BE SURE TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about these or any other medications you are currently taking.

Warnings
  • Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to any medications, especially to oxybutynin.

  • Before you begin treatment with oxybutynin, be sure to tell your doctor if you now have or have ever had bleeding disorders, glaucoma, heart disease, hiatal hernia, high blood pressure, intestinal blockage, kidney disease, liver disease, myasthenia gravis, enlarged prostate gland, rapid heart rate, thyroid disease, toxemia of pregnancy, ulcerative colitis, or urinary retention.

  • If oxybutynin makes you dizzy or blurs your vision, avoid taking part in any activity that requires alertness, such as driving an automobile or operating any potentially dangerous machinery.

  • Oxybutynin can decrease sweating and heat release from the body. Try not to become overheated. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather, and do not take hot baths, showers, and saunas.

  • To prevent oversedation, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages while you are taking this medication.

  • Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Although oxybutynin appears to be safe during pregnancy, extensive studies in humans have not been conducted. Also tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant. This drug may decrease milk production. It is not known whether oxybutynin passes into breast milk.