Oxybutynin - oral

Oxybutynin is used to treat urinary problems due to an overactive bladder. This medicine helps decrease the urge and frequency of urination.

Take Oxybutynin exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

If you are taking the extended-release type of tablet (usually labelled “ER”), swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew or crush the tablet.

Oxybutynin must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- glaucoma (an increased pressure in the eye)
- blocked bowel
- inability or problems emptying your stomach or bladder
as Oxybutynin may not be suitable for you.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- liver disease
- kidney disease
- heart disease
- nerve disorder
- enlarged prostate
- thyroid disease
- myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
- heartburn (food or acid from your stomach backs up into your mouth, leaving a sour or bitter taste)
- hiatal hernia (condition when part of the stomach extends through the diaphragm)
- dementia (group of symptoms affecting thinking and social abilities)
- Parkinson’s disease (a disorder that affects movement of a person, causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and impaired balance or walking)

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Oxybutynin may reduce sweating and may make your body temperature rise. Discuss with your doctor if you frequently need to exercise, participate in any activity or work in a hot environment.

Oxybutynin may cause drowsiness or some problems with your eyesight. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: dry mouth, indigestion, constipation, nausea, difficulty sleeping and nervousness.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- breathlessness
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue
- hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent)

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

- medicines for colds or allergy e.g. chlorpheniramine
- medicines to treat fungal infection e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole
- antibiotics e.g. clarithromycin, erythromycin
- medicines to treat heart disease e.g. digoxin
- medicines for mood disorder e.g. clozapine
- medicines to treat depression e.g. amitriptyline
- medicines for Parkinson's disease e.g. levodopa, amantadine

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Oxybutynin.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light and moisture.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.