OXYBUTYNIN

Background and Date of Approval

Oxybutynin received U.S. FDA approval for the treatment of patients with overactive bladder (OAB) on February 6, 2002.

Uses

In adults and children, Oxybutynin is used to treat urinary incontinence (loss of control in passing urine) and frequent and sudden urges to urinate that may not be easy to control. In children five years or older, it is also used in treating nighttime bedwetting when other treatments have not worked.

How is it administered?

Take an Oxybutynin tablet with a glass of water. Swallow the tablet, do not crush, chew, or dissolve it. Your doctor will choose the dosage and administration frequency based on the physical condition because it differs for each person.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Oxybutynin are headache, blurred vision, dry skin and eyes, face flushing, difficulties in urination, diarrhea, nausea, dry mouth, and constipation. Serious side effects while taking Oxybutynin are allergic reactions (swelling in the face, tongue, or throat) difficulty in breathing, dizziness, and angioedema (swelling under the skin).

Warnings

Before starting the treatment with Oxybutynin, inform your doctor if you have any liver, heart (failure, irregular heartbeat) or kidney-related conditions, difficulties in the stomach or intestines, heartburn, or indigestion caused by hiatus hernia ( part of the stomach squeezes through the diaphragm). Notify your doctor if you take any other medicine, especially for osteoporosis (bisphosphonates), and if you have hyperthyroidism, high blood pressure, and nerve damage (autonomic neuropathy). This medicine is contraindicated for Parkinson’s condition.

Precautions

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant or breastfeeding because this medicine is unsafe to use in such conditions. Report to your doctor if you are intolerant to some sugar, as this medicine contains Lactose. Inform your doctor if you experience any symptoms like difficulties in breathing. Notify you if you have any lung-related condition before starting the treatment with Oxybutynin. Inform your physician about any underlying kidney disorders before taking Oxybutynin, as this medication should be used with caution in kidney disease patients. Consult your physician before taking this medicine.

Word of Advice

Keep this tablet out of the sight and reach of children. Store in the original package below 25°C. Store in a dry place. Inform your doctor if you take any other medicine with Oxybutynin.

References

Tillomed Laboratories Ltd, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2022] [Accessed on 24th April 2023], Oxybutynin Hydrochloride 5mg Tablets - Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) - (EMC) (medicines.org.uk) Achilles J. Pappano, Cholinoceptor-Blocking Drugs, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 124-136. J. Goddard, A.N. Turner, Kidney, and urinary tract disease; Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine; 22nd Edition, 2014, 461-523

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Oxybutynin be used in children?

Oxybutynin can be used in children, but a doctor should determine the dosage and duration of treatment. Additionally, it should not be used in children under the age of 5 years.

Is Oxybutynin contain any sugar?

Yes, Oxybutynin contains Lactose. Hence before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you are intolerant to sugar.

How long do these side effects last?

The duration of the side effects may vary from person to person, where some side effects (nausea, constipation) may persist throughout treatment.

Can oxybutynin cause mood changes?

Oxybutynin may cause mood changes (depression or anxiety) or affective disorders. If you experience any changes in mood or behavior while taking oxybutynin, you should contact your doctor.

What if I experience severe side effects?

If you experience severe side effects, like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or allergic action, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Available Brands 3

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS