Oxybutynine (Ditropan)

Ditropan is the brand name of a drug called oxybutynin. Oxybutynin is part of a group of medications called antispasmodics, which are designed to relax the smooth muscles in the bladder and relieve the pain and discomfort associated with spasms. Usually, Ditropan is used to relieve bladder spasms in circumstances where other more conservative medication may not have been effective. Ditropan tablets are available to treat a range of disorders associated with bladder instability. Usually, the purpose of Ditropan is to address abnormal nerve impulses in the bladder. In these situations, Ditropan tablets reduce the activity in the bladder muscles to address symptoms like dysuria, frequency, urinary incontinence and more. Ditropan can only be used to treat incontinence in children older than five years, and adults. Crucially, while oxybutynin Ditropan is capable of controlling symptoms, it does not cure the underlying condition. Most people will be required to take Ditropan at the same time, every day for a specified length of time. Not all patients with incontinence issues will be able to receive Ditropan treatment.Oxybutynin is the generic name for the drug Ditropan, used to treat urinary and bladder conditions, incontinence and other common issues. Ditropan belongs to a group of medications called antispasmodics, which help to reduce the muscle spasms in the bladder and eliminate the urge to urinate caused by spasms. Ditropan is available in some forms as an over- the-counter treatment; however, most treatments will require a prescription or doctor evaluation.

Ditropan is the brand name of a drug called oxybutynin. Oxybutynin is part of a group of medications called antispasmodics, which are designed to relax the smooth muscles in the bladder and relieve pain and discomfort associated with spasms.

Usually, Ditropan tablets are used to relieve bladder spasms in circumstances where other more conservative medications may not have been effective.

Ditropan is available to treat a range of disorders associated with bladder instability. Usually, oxybutynin Ditropan is used to address abnormal nerve impulses in the bladder. In these situations, Ditropan reduces the activity in the bladder muscles to address symptoms like dysuria, frequency, urinary incontinence and more. Ditropan can only be used to treat incontinence in children older than five years, and adults. Crucially, while Ditropan tablets are capable of controlling symptoms, they do not cure the underlying condition. Most people will be required to take Ditropan at the same time, every day for a specified length of time. Not all patients with incontinence issues will be able to receive Ditropan treatment.

Oxybutynine (Ditropan) is used in circumstances where other methods of treating incontinence have not been successful. The active component in this substance is oxybutynin chloride, which relaxes smooth muscles in the body. Ditropan works by inhibiting the effects of the acetylcholine compound, reducing the risk of involuntary contractions in people with bladder issues.

Commonly, Oxybutynine (Ditropan) is used to treat adults and children over the age of 5 with:

Urinary incontinence, or the loss of control in passing water Night-time bedwetting, when other treatments are not successful Increased urgency or need to pass urine.

Oxybutynine (Ditropan) is currently available in a range of different forms, including patches, syrups, and tablets or pills. Ditropan XL is also available, this is the same oxybutynin medication as you find in Ditropan tablets but with an extended release formula. The option that your doctor offers will depend on your dosage, how comfortable you feel taking pills and your age. Usually, the syrup is better suited to younger people taking Ditropan. When taken by mouth, Oxybutynine (Ditropan) should only be consumed in the dosage prescribed by your doctor. The amount you take will depend on your condition and response to various forms of therapy. Oxybutynine (Ditropan) tablets are intended to be taken whole with a glass of water. For adults, the usual dosage is a single tablet between two and three times per day – up to a maximum of four times per day. Older patients may need to take a lower dose to reduce their risk of side effects.

Children over the age of five years may need to take one Ditrpan tablet twice a day, or they may use the syrup version of Oxybutynine (Ditropan) instead. When taking Oxybutynine (Ditropan), it is important to be careful when driving and operating heavy machinery, as oxybutynin may cause vision problems, dizziness and drowsiness. Oxybutynine (Ditropan) should also be taken with caution in hot environments, as it sometimes impairs the body’s ability to sweat and can lead to overheating. Your doctor may perform regular cystometry tests to determine your bladder function while you’re taking Oxybutynine (Ditropan).

The dosage of Oxybutynine (Ditropan) that you are given will differ depending on your medical background. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor.

Common treatment dosages are:

• Ditropan XL oral extended-release tablets for adults: 5 to 10mg each day, once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dosage as needed;
• Ditropan XL oral extended-release tablets for children over the age of 5: 5mg each day, once a day;
• The usual maximum dosage of Ditropan for children is 10-15mg per day;
• For adults, the maximum dose per day is 30mg;
• For syrups and non-extended release Ditropan tablets, children over the age of 5 can take 2.5mg 2 to 3 times per day. Adults can also take 5mg two to 3 times per day.

Your doctor may decide to increase your dosage as needed. Usually, doctors will not prescribe more than 15mg per day for this form of Ditropan. If you accidentally miss a dose of Ditropan, make sure that you take it as quickly as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip your missed dose, and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of Oxybutynine (Ditropan).

Like all medications, some side effects may occur when taking Oxybutynine (Ditropan). The majority of the side effects experienced by patients taking Ditropan are mild and will not require treatment. Common issues can disappear on their own. However, in rare cases, patients can have more serious reactions to this medication. Usually, the larger the dose of Oxybutynine (Ditropan) that you take, the more likely you are to experience side effects. If you experience any symptoms you think might be caused by Ditropan, make sure you discuss them with your doctor.

The most common side effects of this medicine include:

• Abdominal pain;
• Dry mouth;
• Nausea;
• Headache;
• Constipation;
• Dyspepsia;
• Diarrhoea;
• Drowsiness;
• Difficulty urinating;
• Dizziness;
• Blurred vision Facial flushing.

A small number of patients taking Oxybutynine (Ditropan) may experience more serious side effects that should be addressed more urgently by a medical professional. These side effects include:

• Fits and convulsions;
• Difficulty sleeping or unusual tiredness Impotence;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Reduced sweating and overheating;
• Cognitive dysfunction, such as hallucinations or confusion Eye problems, including eye muscle dysfunction;
• Cardiovascular problems and irregular heartbeat.

Tell your doctor immediately if you suffer from any serious side effects, including decreased sexual activity, signs of a kidney infection (such as painful or burning urination), mental or mood changes, or swellings in the arms, legs, ankles or feet. It’s important to speak to a professional if you notice any vision problems, seizures, or other unusual symptoms too.

A very serious allergic reaction to Ditropan is rare. However, it’s important to seek help immediately if you experience swelling in the mouth or throat or see any rashes on your body. Trouble breathing and dizziness may also be signs of an allergic reaction.

An overdose of Ditropan can also lead to a combination of side effects which include central nervous system issues such as restlessness and irritability. Flushing, dehydration, fever, irregular heartbeat, urinary retention and vomiting can also be signs of overdose.

Oxybutynine (Ditropan) helps many people overcome bladder problems. However, it’s not the correct treatment for everyone. Before you take Ditropan, or anything containing oxybutynin, you must tell your doctor if you’re allergic to the medication, or if you have any other allergies that they need to be aware of. Some forms of Oxybutynine (Ditropan) may include trace ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.

Before using Oxybutynine (Ditropan), it is crucial to tell your doctor of your medical history, including any experiences with internal bleeding, untreated glaucoma, bladder disease, or certain muscle diseases, such as myasthenia gravis. It’s also very important that your doctor is aware of any heart disease or heart conditions that you have experienced in the past, or that might run in your family. Make sure that your doctor is aware if you have ever had liver disease or kidney disease, or any loss of your mental abilities such as dementia. Some nervous system disorders like autonomic neuropathy can lead to issues with Ditropan, and an enlarged prostate gland can also be problematic. Additionally, make sure that your doctor knows about any intestinal or stomach diseases that you have had in the past, as well as your exposure to conditions like an overactive thyroid.

Remember that Oxybutynine (Ditropan)tablets can sometimes increase the risk for heatstroke when taken in hot climates because it reduces sweating. Make sure that you take care when taking Ditropan in hot weather or using it in saunas or during exercise. During pregnancy, Oxybutynine (Ditropan) should only be used when absolutely necessary, the same with breastfeeding. Be aware that older adults and children can be more sensitive to the side effects of Ditropan, particularly when it comes to issues like constipation, confusion, and drowsiness. If you do feel drowsy or confused when taking Ditropan, make sure that you do not operate heavy machinery or drive until you are sure that you can perform these activities safely. It is recommended that patients using Ditropan avoid alcohol consumption.

Drug interactions can increase your chances of serious side effects and change how your medications work. Make sure that you keep a complete list of all the products that you use, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, and any herbal products. Share this list with your doctor or pharmacist when seeking treatment with Ditropan.

Some of the products that may interact with this drug include:

• Anticholinergic drugs like glycopyrrolate, atropine, and scopolamine;
• Antispasmodic drugs like dicyclomine, propantheline and clidinium;
• Anti-Parkinson’s drugs like benztropine and trihexyphenidyl;
• Bisphosphonate drugs like etidronate and alendronate;
• Drugs affecting the liver enzymes responsible for removing oxybutynin from the body;
• Macrolide antibiotics including erythromycin and cimetidine;
• Potassium capsules and tablets.

Make sure that your doctor is aware if you’re taking drugs that may cause drowsiness, anti-anxiety drugs, anti-seizure drugs, sleep medications, narcotic pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and psychiatric medications.

Ditropan is available from all registered online and offline pharmacies in the UK. Some types of Ditropan will be available over the counter – such as the patch form of the medication. However, it is important to speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking Ditropan to ensure that it is the right medicine for you. Importantly, Ditropan is just the branded name of Oxybutynin. It is possible to get the same ingredients in other medications from different brands.

Oxybutynine (Ditropan) is available without prescription in some cases. Make sure that you speak to a doctor before seeking treatment with Oxybutynine (Ditropan). Larger doses of oxybutynin will require a prescription from your doctor, particularly if you will be taking this medication for an extended period. It is important to talk to doctors about your symptoms before seeking treatment for any condition, including incontinence.

Ditropan- Product Information, Ortho-McNeil, 2003. Available from: http://www.ortho-mcneilpharmaceutical.com/products/pi/pdfs/Lg Ditropan PI.pdf

Sanofi, 1992-2016, France, Ditropan 5mg Tablets, Retrieved from: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/11247/smpc