osudhkosh

Generic

Oxybutynin Hydrochloride

1 brands available in the market

At a glance

Oxybutynin Hydrochloride is an antimuscarinic used for overactive bladder symptoms (frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, inability to control urination). It relaxes bladder smooth muscle.

Description

Oxybutynin exerts direct antispasmodic effect on smooth muscle by inhibiting the muscarinic action of acetylcholine. It exhibits moderate anticholinergic effect but has potent antispasmodic effects on urinary smooth muscle.

Indications
  • Overactive bladder symptoms (frequent urination, urgency, urge incontinence)
  • Detrusor overactivity associated with neurologic conditions (e.g., spina bifida)
Therapeutic class

Bladder Drugs

Pharmacological class

Antimuscarinic (Anticholinergic)

Pharmacology

Oxybutynin blocks muscarinic receptors of acetylcholine to relax detrusor muscle, increasing bladder capacity and reducing involuntary contractions.

Mechanism of action

Relieves overactive bladder symptoms by relaxing bladder muscle.

Dosage

Adult Dose (Oral, Extended-release):

  • Initial: 5 mg once daily; increase by 5 mg weekly if needed; max 30 mg/day

Pediatric Dose (>6 years, Extended-release):

  • 5 mg/day initially; may increase by 5 mg/day weekly; max 20 mg/day
Administration
  • Take on empty stomach (at least 1 hour before meals)
  • Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
  • Take at the same time each day
Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.

Side effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry skin
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Sleepiness
Precautions & warnings
  • Caution while driving (may cause drowsiness and blurred vision)
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks
  • Dry mouth, dry eyes and constipation may occur; drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum
  • May take up to 4 weeks to see improvement
Contraindications
  • GI obstruction or atrophy
  • Severe toxic megacolon
  • Significant bladder outflow obstruction
  • Glaucoma
  • Urinary retention
Drug interactions
  • Undesirable increased anticholinergic effects with other anticholinergic drugs
  • Additive sedation with CNS depressants and alcohol
  • Increased concentration with CYP3A4 inhibitors
Food interactions

Alcohol may cause excessive drowsiness; avoid.

Use in pregnancy

Use in Pregnancy: Oxybutynin is considered safe during pregnancy; animal studies show low or no adverse effects.

Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

Use in Lactation: Oxybutynin is probably safe during breastfeeding; no significant risk to baby.

Pediatric use

Safety not established in children under 6 years; dose established for children 6 years+.

Geriatric use

Elderly may require dose adjustment.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.

Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.

Overdose effects

Overdose: Anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, tachycardia); symptomatic treatment.

Storage conditions

Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Oxybutynin Hydrochloride

Common questions

What does Oxybutynin do?
It is used for overactive bladder symptoms (frequent urination, urgency).
How to use it?
Take on empty stomach as prescribed by your doctor.
What are the side effects?
Dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, drowsiness, etc. may occur.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.