Oxybutynin

About oxybutynin

Oxybutynin is used to treat urinary frequency (a need to pass water often), urinary urgency (a need to pass water urgently) and urinary incontinence (a lack of control over passing water). These symptoms are sometimes associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis or spina bifida.

It can also be used to treat nocturnal enuresis (bed-wetting) in children.

Oxybutynin works by relaxing the muscles of the bladder and stopping sudden muscle contractions (spasms). This helps control the release of urine.

Before taking oxybutynin

Before taking oxybutynin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from heart, liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from prostate problems.
• If you have suffered damage to the nerves that control bladder emptying.
• If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you suffer from high blood pressure, or hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland).
• If you have a problem with gut motility (movement of waste through the gut) such as ulcerative colitis, paralytic ileus, or toxic megacolon.
• If you suffer from hiatus hernia with reflux oesophagitis (acid reflux or heartburn).
• If you have been experiencing difficulty passing water.
• If you are currently suffering from a urinary tract infection (water infection).
• If you suffer from porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take oxybutynin

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Swallow the tablets with a drink of water.
• If you have been given the modified release tablet swallow it whole. Do not crush or chew it.
• Try to take oxybutynin at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
• Children being treated for bed-wetting should be given the last dose before bedtime.
• If you have been given the patches, apply one patch twice a week to an area of clean, dry skin on the abdomen, hips or bottom. Leave each patch in place for 3 - 4 days before removing it and applying a fresh patch. Avoid applying the new patch to the same area of skin as the previous patch.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor, so your progress can be monitored.
• Before buying any medicines, check with your pharmacist which are safe for you to take alongside oxybutynin.
• Before having any kind of treatment, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking oxybutynin.

Can oxybutynin cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store oxybutynin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines