Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin ER)

Description

Ditropan XL is a medication used to treat symptoms of an overactive bladder, like needing to urinate often, feeling urgent urges to go, or having trouble with accidental leakage. It works by relaxing the bladder muscle, making it easier to control when you need to urinate. It comes as an extended-release tablet used for adults and children 6 years and older.

Directions

Take Ditropan XL by mouth once per day with a full glass of water. Most adults start with 5 to 10 milligrams each day, but a healthcare provider might adjust your dose based on how you respond and if you have any side effects. Try to take it at the same time every day, and do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release tablet—swallow it whole. Breaking it can interfere with how the medication is absorbed. Always follow a healthcare provider’s instructions and check the medicine label for any special directions.

Ingredients

Ditropan XL contains the active ingredient Oxybutynin.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Allergy to any ingredients in Ditropan XL
• Urinary retention
• Gastric retention
• Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma

Cautions

• Before taking Ditropan XL, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Some people taking Ditropan XL have had serious allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. This can happen even after the first dose and may be life-threatening.
• Ditropan XL can affect how the brain works. Some people have experienced confusion, sleepiness, agitation, or even hallucinations. These effects are more likely when first starting or increasing the dose.
• Don’t drive or use heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. People with dementia or Parkinson’s disease should be especially careful, as it may worsen their symptoms.
• This medication should be used with caution in people with conditions like myasthenia gravis or autonomic neuropathy, since it may make symptoms worse, such as muscle weakness or slowed digestion.
• Ditropan XL may cause trouble emptying the bladder, especially in people with bladder blockages. It can also slow down your digestive system. If you have stomach or intestinal problems, such as ulcers, reflux, or past surgeries that narrowed your intestines, talk to a healthcare provider before using this medication.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Ditropan XL include dry mouth, constipation, headache, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Some people also report dizziness, dry eyes, or trouble sleeping, especially at higher doses. In rare cases, Ditropan XL may cause fatigue, nausea, or changes in taste. Although most side effects are mild, dry mouth was the most frequent cause of stopping the medication during clinical trials.

More serious side effects have been reported, including hallucinations, confusion, memory problems, and rapid heartbeat. Rare allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or trouble breathing, may require emergency care. Ditropan XL may also lead to difficulty urinating, urinary retention, or vision changes like glaucoma. If you notice any severe or unusual symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider right away.

References

1. Ditropan XL Product Monograph. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2021.
2. Ditropan XL Drug Label Information. Tulsa, OK: Physicians Total Care, Inc.; 2012.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....