Common Use

Oxybutynin is an antispasmodic and anticholinergic medication used to treat symptoms of an overactive bladder, including incontinence, frequent or urgent urination, and increased nighttime urination. It works by relaxing the muscles in the bladder.

Dosage and Direction

Take oxybutynin orally, with or without food, or with a full glass of water or milk. The recommended dosage for adults is one 5 milligram tablet taken 2 to 3 times daily, not exceeding 4 tablets in a day. For children over 5 years of age, the recommended dose is one 5 milligram tablet twice daily, with a maximum of 3 tablets per day. Do not use oxybutynin in children under 5 years of age. Always consult your doctor before starting this medication to ensure the best results.

Precautions

Use oxybutynin with caution in frail elderly individuals, children, and patients with autonomic neuropathy, hepatic or renal impairment, or severe gastrointestinal motility disorders. Avoid driving or operating machinery as oxybutynin may cause drowsiness or blurred vision. It may worsen symptoms of overactive heart disease, congestive heart failure, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or enlarged prostate. Reduced sweating can lead to heat prostration in high temperatures. Patients with hiatus hernia and reflux oesophagitis should use oxybutynin cautiously, as it may worsen these conditions. Avoid use during pregnancy, while planning to become pregnant, or during breastfeeding without medical advice.

Contraindications

Oxybutynin is not suitable for individuals with hypersensitivity to oxybutynin or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in cases of urinary retention, gastric retention, severe gastrointestinal motility disorders, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or in patients at risk for these conditions.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects include:

• Hot, dry skin and extreme thirst
• Severe stomach pain or constipation
• Pain or burning during urination
• Reduced urination or complete absence of urination

Less serious side effects may include:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes or blurred vision
• Mild constipation or diarrhea
• Nausea, mild stomach pain, or upset
• Dizziness, drowsiness, or weakness
• Headache or sleep problems
• Runny nose

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using oxybutynin and consult your doctor immediately. Report any unusual side effects to your healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions

Oxybutynin may interact with the following medications:

• Other bladder or urinary medications (e.g., darifenacin, flavoxate, tolterodine, solifenacin)
• Glycopyrrolate
• Flecainide
• Mepenzolate
• Thioridazine
• HIV/AIDS medications (e.g., nelfinavir, ritonavir)
• Antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin)
• Atropine, benztropine, dimenhydrinate, methscopolamine, or scopolamine
• Bronchodilators (e.g., ipratropium, tiotropium)
• Antifungal medications (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• Irritable bowel medications (e.g., dicyclomine, hyoscyamine, propantheline)
• Antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, clomipramine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, nortriptyline, paroxetine)

Drug interactions do not always require stopping a medication, but they may affect its efficacy. Consult your doctor to manage any potential interactions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

Symptoms of oxybutynin overdose may include restlessness, fever, uneven heart rate, tingling sensations, vomiting, and reduced urination. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose.

Storage

Store oxybutynin at room temperature, between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep it away from moisture and heat.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of oxybutynin and does not cover all possible instructions, drug interactions, or precautions. It is not intended for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. We are not responsible for any errors in the information or for any consequences resulting from its use or self-treatment.