Indications
Ditropan (active ingredient: oxybutynin) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Overactive Bladder: Ditropan is used for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urinary frequency, urgency, and urge incontinence.
- Detrusor Overactivity: It is also indicated for the management of detrusor overactivity associated with neurogenic bladder dysfunction in patients aged 6 years and older.
Ditropan belongs to a class of drugs known as antimuscarinics, which work by blocking the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors in the bladder, thereby reducing bladder muscle contractions and the associated symptoms of overactive bladder.
Uses and Dosage
Ditropan comes in the form of a tablet that should be taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times a day. The tablet must be swallowed whole with the aid of liquids, and must not be chewed, divided, or crushed. Doing so could lead to the release of the entire dose of the drug at once, which could lead to serious side effects.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy, and the length of treatment is determined by your doctor. Your doctor may suggest periodic trials of the drug to evaluate whether you still need to be taking it.
- The recommended starting dose of DITROPAN for adults is 5 or 10 mg once daily at approximately the same time each day. Dosage may be adjusted in 5-mg increments to achieve a balance of efficacy and tolerability (up to a maximum of 30 mg/day). In general, dosage adjustment may proceed about weekly.
- For children, the recommended starting dose of DITROPAN is 5 mg once daily at approximately the same time each day. Dosage may be adjusted in 5-mg increments to achieve a balance of efficacy and tolerability (up to a maximum of 20 mg/day).
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Oxybutynin:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Blurred vision
- Upset stomach or stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Unusual taste in the mouth
- Dry or flushed skin
Serious Side Effects of Oxybutynin:
- Decreased sexual activity
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Difficulty urinating
- Swelling of the extremities
- Vision problems
- Seizures
- Stomach or intestinal blockage
- Signs of kidney infection (fever, burning or painful urination, lower back pain)
Form and Strength
Ditropan (Oxybutynin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Ditropan: Tablet
- 5mg
Oxybutynin: Tablet
- 2.5mg
- 5mg
Caution
- Before using this medication, you should fully disclose your medical history to your doctor, including any history of bladder disease, heart disease, myasthenia gravis, high blood pressure, stomach or intestinal disease, enlarged prostate gland, liver disease, kidney disease, dementia, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, and Parkinson’s disease. Discuss any prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and supplements you are taking with your doctor due to drug interactions.
- Taking Ditropan may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything that requires alertness or clear vision until you know how this medication affects you. Avoid alcoholic beverages while using this medication, as alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make the side effects worse.
- If you have a rash, itching, a large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs, trouble breathing, or chest tightness while taking Ditropan, you may be experiencing a serious type of allergic reaction called angioedema, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
- Ditropan XL is a medication used to treat overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, but it should not be used if you have untreated or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines), or if you are unable to urinate. Doing so could lead to serious side effects and should be avoided.
- Ditropan can increase the risk for heatstroke due to decreased sweating. To avoid this, take extra precautions to not become overheated in hot weather, saunas, and during exercise or other strenuous activities. Older adults may be particularly sensitive to the side effects of this medication, so extra care should be taken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Ditropan to take effect?
It takes around three to four hours for this medication to start working.
Does Ditropan make you sleepy?
Yes, this medication may cause drowsiness.
What is the recommended dosage for Ditropan?
The recommended dose of Ditropan is 5 mg twice daily.
Is Ditropan safe for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Ditropan is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may cause harm to the fetus or infant.
Is it safe to take Ditropan with other medications?
It is considered safe to take Ditropan with other medications, but it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist first to make sure it is safe to do so.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/017577s034,018211s017,020897s018lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/ditropan-drug.htm
- https://www.drugs.com/ditropan.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3719/ditropan-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/oxybutynin-oral-route/description/drg-20065229
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