Indications
Oxytrol is a transdermal system (skin patch) used to treat symptoms of an overactive bladder in women. The active ingredient in the Oxytrol patch is oxybutynin, which belongs to a class of drugs known as antispasmodics or anticholinergics. The Oxytrol patch delivers oxybutynin through the skin and into the bloodstream, where it works to relax the muscles in the bladder, reducing urinary urgency and frequency.
The patch should be applied to the skin on the lower abdomen, hip, or buttock, and replaced with a new patch after four days. The Oxytrol patch is available by prescription and should be used only as directed by a healthcare provider. It is important to discuss any medical conditions or medications with your doctor before using the Oxytrol patch, as it may not be safe or appropriate for everyone.
Uses and Dosage
Oxybutynin is administered as a transdermal patch that is applied to the skin. It is usually applied twice a week, with a recommended interval of every 3-4 days. To help remember the application schedule, patients can mark the calendar on the back of the package. Before applying the patch, the skin must be clean and dry, and the patch should be placed on a comfortable area of the stomach, hip, or buttock that is not rubbed by tight clothing and is protected from sunlight. If the patch loosens or falls off, patients should replace it on their next scheduled patch change day.
To use the Oxytrol patch (which contains oxybutynin), follow these steps:
- Choose a clean, dry, and hairless area of skin on your stomach, hip, or buttocks.
- Remove the patch from its package and peel off the protective liner.
- Apply the patch to the chosen area and press it firmly into place with the palm of your hand. Make sure it is flat against the skin and not wrinkled or folded.
- Wear the patch continuously for four days and nights.
- After four days, remove the patch and apply a new one to a different area of skin.
- If the patch becomes loose or falls off, press it back into place or apply a new patch to a different area.
- Do not put a new patch on the same area of skin for at least one week.
- Do not apply any lotion, powder, or oil to the skin before or after applying the patch.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Oxytrol Patch (Oxybutynin):
- Back pain
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Extreme tiredness
- Flushing
- Gas
- Headache
- Redness, burning, or itching in the place where you applied a patch
- Stomach pain
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects of Oxytrol Patch (Oxybutynin):
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Frequent, urgent, or painful urination
- Hives
- Hoarseness
- Rash anywhere on the body
- Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Form and Strength
Oxytrol Patch (Oxybutynin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Oxytrol Patch: Patch
- 3.9mg/24hr
Caution
- Oxytrol may cause an increase in intraocular pressure in patients with a history of narrow-angle glaucoma.
- Oxytrol may cause drowsiness or blurred vision, which may impair the patient's ability to drive or operate machinery.
- Oxytrol may cause dry mouth or constipation, and patients should drink plenty of fluids and maintain adequate dietary fiber intake to prevent these side effects.
- Oxytrol may cause skin irritation at the application site, and patients should avoid applying the patch to areas of irritated or damaged skin.
- Oxytrol may cause symptoms of cognitive impairment or confusion, particularly in elderly patients.
- Oxytrol may interact with other medications, including certain antifungal agents or antibiotics, and should be used with caution in patients taking these medications.
- Oxytrol should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing conditions such as liver or kidney disease.
- Oxytrol should not be used in patients with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma or myasthenia gravis.
- Patients should avoid exposing the Oxytrol patch to excessive heat, such as from a hot bath or sauna, as this may increase the absorption of oxybutynin and increase the risk of side effects.
- Patients with clinically significant bladder outflow obstruction should use Oxytrol with caution due to the risk of urinary retention. Oxytrol should be used with caution in patients with gastrointestinal disorders or a history of urinary retention, as it may worsen these conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the Oxytrol patch be used by men?
The Oxytrol patch has only been approved for use in women, so it is not recommended for use in men.
How long does it take for the Oxytrol patch to start working?
The Oxytrol patch may start working within the first week of use, but it may take up to four weeks to see the full effects.
Can I shower or swim while wearing the Oxytrol patch?
Yes, you can shower or swim while wearing the Oxytrol patch, as it is designed to stay in place during these activities.
How long does it take for Oxytrol (oxybutynin) to start working?
It takes about a week after you start Oxytrol (oxybutynin) patches for the medication to reach steady levels in your system. Each patch delivers the medication slowly through your skin and into your bloodstream during the 3 or 4 days that you wear it.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021351s005lbl.pdf
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/oxybutynin-transdermal-route/side-effects/drg-20072572?p=1
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2004/1215/p2351.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=20dee37f-1412-44ed-9e8b-f4379ce23eb0
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604016.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/oxytrol/what-is
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