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Oxybutynin

Brand names: Ditropan XL, Oxytrol

Oxybutynin relaxes the bladder muscle to ease urgency, frequent peeing, and leaks from an overactive bladder.

Brand namesDitropan XL, Oxytrol
Type of medicineBladder antispasmodic (anticholinergic)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It comes as pills, a patch, and a gel.

What it's used for

  • Overactive bladder
  • Bladder spasms in children with nerve-related bladder problems

How to take it

  • Swallow extended-release tablets whole.
  • Change patches as directed and rotate spots.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Sleepiness
  • Blurry vision
  • Less sweating
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
Call your provider todayCan't pee
Call your provider todayConfusion, agitation, or seeing things
Call your provider todayOverheating or fever, especially in hot weather

Warnings

  • Older adults are more likely to become confused; long-term use of this kind of medicine may be linked to memory problems.
  • Not for people with untreated narrow-angle glaucoma or who can't empty their bladder.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Other anticholinergic medicines (like diphenhydramine and some antidepressants) add to side effects.
  • Alcohol adds to drowsiness.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.