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oxybutynin - oral, Ditropan

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GENERIC NAME: OXYBUTYNIN - ORAL (ox-ee-BYOU-tih-nin KLOR-ide)

BRAND NAME(S): Ditropan

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Oxybutynin is used to treat certain bladder and urinary conditions (e.g., overactive bladder). It relaxes the muscles in the bladder to help decrease problems of urgency and frequent urination. Oxybutynin belongs to a class of drugs known as antispasmodics.The manufacturer does not recommend using this medication in children younger than 5 years of age.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually 2-3 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. It may be taken with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. The length of treatment is determined by your doctor, who may suggest periodic trials off the drug to evaluate whether you still need to be taking it.When using the syrup, measure the dose out carefully with a medication spoon/cup.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, dry eyes, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, headache, unusual taste in mouth, dry/flushed skin, and weakness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use a saliva substitute. To relieve dry eyes, use artificial tears or other eye lubricants. Consult your pharmacist for further advice.To prevent constipation, maintain a diet adequate in fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise. If you become constipated, consult your pharmacist for help in choosing a laxative (e.g., stimulant-type with stool softener).Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: decreased sexual activity, difficulty urinating, fast/pounding heartbeat, signs of kidney infection (e.g., burning/painful/frequent urination, lower back pain, fever), mental/mood changes, swelling of arms/legs/ankles/feet, vision problems (including eye pain).Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: seizures, stomach/intestinal blockage (e.g., persistent nausea/vomiting, prolonged constipation).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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