Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This is an extended-release formulation of oxybutynin, prescribed for the treatment of overactive bladder and urinary conditions. Its mechanism of action involves inducing muscle relaxation in the bladder, thereby alleviating symptoms of urgency and frequent urination. Oxybutynin belongs to a pharmacological class referred to as antispasmodics.
Uses and Dosage
Oxybutynin is available in tablet, syrup, and extended-release tablet forms for oral administration. The tablets and syrup are typically taken two to four times per day, while the extended-release tablet is taken once daily, with or without food.
Take oxybutynin at consistent times each day. Adhere to the prescribed dosage regimen precisely, avoiding any deviations such as increasing or decreasing the dose or taking it more frequently than instructed by your doctor.
When consuming the extended-release tablets, swallow them whole with an ample amount of water or liquid. Do not break, chew, or crush the extended-release tablets. Inform your doctor if you or your child encounter difficulties swallowing tablets.
Your doctor may initiate treatment with a low dose of oxybutynin and gradually escalate the dosage, with a frequency of no more than once per week.
While oxybutynin can manage your symptoms, it does not provide a cure for your condition. Continue taking oxybutynin even if you feel well. Ceasing the medication should only be done under the guidance of your doctor.
Within the first two weeks of treatment, you may notice some improvement in your symptoms. It may take approximately 6 to 8 weeks to experience the full benefits of oxybutynin. If your symptoms show no improvement within 8 weeks, consult your doctor for further guidance.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dry mouth
- blurred vision
- dry eyes, nose, or skin
- stomach pain
- constipation
- diarrhea
- nausea
- heartburn
- gas
- change in ability to taste food
- headache
- dizziness
- weakness
- confusion
- sleepiness
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- nervousness
- flushing
- swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- back or joint pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- hives
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- frequent, urgent, or painful urination
- fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
Caution
Prior to initiating oxybutynin treatment, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any known allergies, including allergies to oxybutynin or other substances present in the product. Inactive ingredients in the medication may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of conditions such as glaucoma, bladder disease, certain muscle diseases, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, kidney disease, loss of mental abilities (dementia), certain nervous system disorders (autonomic neuropathy), enlarged prostate gland, stomach/intestinal diseases, severe throat/stomach/intestinal narrowing (strictures), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or Parkinson’s disease.
This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely.
This medication may increase the risk of heatstroke due to reduced sweating. Avoid overheating in hot weather, saunas, and during exercise or strenuous activity.
Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly drowsiness, confusion, constipation, and difficulty urinating. Drowsiness and confusion can elevate the risk of falls.
During pregnancy, the use of this medication should only be considered when clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Ditropan XL is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Ditropan XL tablet:
- 5mg
- 10mg
-
oxybutynin extended-release tablet:
- 5mg
- 10mg
- 15mg
FAQ
How quickly does Ditropan XL work?
You may not see an immediate effect when you first start taking oxybutynin. Your bladder will need some time to adapt. It usually starts to have an effect within four weeks.
Is Ditropan XL a narcotic?
No. Oxybutynin isn’t a narcotic, and it doesn’t have potential for dependence or addiction. It won’t directly help with pain, though it might give you some bladder pain relief by relaxing the muscles in the bladder.
Resources
- https://mstrust.org.uk/a-z/oxybutynin-ditropan-lyrinel-xl#:~:text=You%20may%20not%20see%20an,starting%20on%20medication%20is%20important
- https://www.goodrx.com/oxybutynin-er/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/oxybutynin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20065229?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16864/ditropan-xl-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682141.html
- https://www.drugs.com/ditropan.html
