OXYBUTYNIN EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL (Ditropan XL) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

OXYBUTYNIN ER-ORAL Index

oxybutynin extended-release - oral, Ditropan XL

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

BRAND NAME(S): Ditropan XL

USES: This is a long-acting form of oxybutynin that is used to treat overactive bladder and urinary conditions. 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.This medication is also used to treat children 6 years of age and older who have an overactive bladder due to certain nerve disorders (e.g., spina bifida).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once 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.Swallow this medication whole with the help of liquids. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets; doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dry mouth, drowsiness, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, blurred vision, dry eyes, unusual taste in mouth, dry/flushed skin, stuffy nose, and cough 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).For certain products of this drug, an empty tablet shell may appear in your stool. This is harmless.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.