Ditropan

The active ingredient in Ditropan is oxybutynin chloride. It belongs to a class of medications called antimuscarinic/anticholinergic. Therefore, Ditropan is considered to be an antispasmodic as it works by relaxing muscles in the bladder.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Ditropan. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Ditropan:

• Take this medication orally exactly as directed by your physician and swallow the extended-release tablet whole.
• Adults: Start with 5 mg or 10 mg once daily.
• Pediatric patients (6 years of age or older): Start with 5 mg once daily.
• Avoid extreme heat. This medication can cause you to sweat less than normal. Your body temperature could increase to dangerous levels, which may lead to heat stroke.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose.

The most common side effects of Ditropan include:

• Confusion.
• Urinary tract infections.
• Somnolence.
• Constipation.
• Drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Headache.
• Dry eyes.
• Blurred vision.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Ditropan. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reactions or angioedema - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face.
• Heat Stroke.
• Trouble passing urine.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Ditropan. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Ditropan, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Autonomic neuropathy.
• Hiatal hernia.
• Narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Dementia.
• Difficulty passing urine.
• Glaucoma.
• Intestinal problems such as blockage, ulcerative colitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• Kidney disease.
• Liver disease.
• Myasthenia gravis.
• Parkinson's disease.
• Allergic reaction to oxybutynin.
• Pregnant.
• Breastfeeding.

• Urinary retention.
• Gastric retention.
• Uncontrolled narrow angle glaucoma.
• Previous hypersensitivity/allergic reaction to Ditropan XL or oxybutynin.

Ditropan starts to work after about 3 to 4 hours to relax the muscles in your bladder. However, it may take 4 weeks or longer before it works fully.

When Ditropan is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antihistamines.
• Other anticholinergic medications.
• Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 inhibitors.
• Atropine.
• Medications for bladder problems (oxybutynin).
• Medications for Parkinson's disease.
• Medications for stomach problems.
• Medications for travel sickness.
• Clarithromycin.
• Erythromycin.
• Ipratropium.
• Medications for fungal infections (itraconazole, ketoconazole).

Ditropan is available in the following dosage forms:

• Extended release tablet - 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg.
• Immediate-release tablet - 2.5 mg, 5 mg.
• Syrup - 5 mg/5 ml.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep out of the reach of children.

Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Ditropan.

There are lower cost generics available of the brand name of Ditropan.

Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting your doctor.

It is unknown if or how Ditropan could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Ditropan passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.