Oxybutynin

What Is This Medication?

Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is a prescription medication used to treat urinary and bladder control problems, such as:

• Frequent urination

• Sudden, strong urges to urinate

• Urge incontinence (inability to control urination)

Oxybutynin is also sold under brand names such as Ditropan, Ditrospan, and Lyrinel XL.

How It Works

Oxybutynin belongs to a class of medications called anticholinergics.
It works by:

• Acting on muscarinic receptors (M1, M2, M3) in the bladder

• Reducing involuntary bladder spasms

• Improving bladder control

• Decreasing urinary frequency, especially at night

This helps provide greater comfort and better quality of life for people with overactive bladder symptoms.

How to Store It

• Keep in a cool, dry place

• Protect from moisture and heat

• Store out of reach of children

• Do not use expired medication; replace with a new supply

How to Take Oxybutynin

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor

• Swallow with a full glass of water

• May be taken with or without food

• Try to take it at the same time every day for best results

Important: This medication can reduce your ability to sweat, which increases the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Avoid extreme heat and stay hydrated.

Typical Dosage

For urge incontinence:

• 5 mg, taken 2 to 3 times per day

Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and tolerance.

Missed Dose

• Take it when you remember

• Skip it if your next dose is soon

• Do not double-dose

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Warnings & Precautions

Oxybutynin may cause:

• Drowsiness

• Blurred vision

• Slower reaction times

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Additional precautions:

• Reduced sweating may lead to overheating—avoid hot environments and drink plenty of water

• Talk to your doctor if you have digestive blockages, glaucoma, or difficulty urinating

• Inform your doctor of all other medications you take

Possible Side Effects

Common mild effects:

• Dry mouth

• Dry eyes

• Blurred vision

• Mild constipation

• Dizziness or drowsiness

More serious side effects (seek medical attention):

• Difficulty or inability to urinate

• Pain or burning when urinating

• Severe constipation or abdominal pain

• Eye pain, halos around lights, or “tunnel vision”

• Signs of dehydration: extreme thirst, very dry skin, little or no sweating

Treating Incontinence

Urinary incontinence becomes more common with age, and Oxybutynin is one of the most effective and frequently prescribed medications for this condition. Many patients experience improved bladder control and fewer disruptions in daily life.

When Should Oxybutynin Not Be Used?

Do not use Oxybutynin if you have:

• An allergy to oxybutynin

• A blockage in the digestive tract

• Inability to urinate

• Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma

Always consult your doctor before starting treatment.

How Long Should You Take It?

Use Oxybutynin for as long as your doctor recommends.
Do not stop treatment early unless advised, even if symptoms improve.