Description
Indications
Detrol is a prescription medicine indicated for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) in adults. A condition where the bladder contracts uncontrollably resulting to urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency.
Belonging to the class of drugs called urinary antispasmodic, Detrol exerts its therapeutic effects by promoting relaxation of the bladder muscles. This mechanism leads to a reduction in bladder contractions and an improvement in the patient’s ability to regulate urination.
Uses and Dosage
Before starting treatment with Detrol and every time you get a refill, ensure to read its patient information leaflet and medication guide. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or clarifications.
Detrol’s dosage may vary per individual based on their medical condition, response to the treatment, and other medications being taken.
Typically, Detrol is taken twice a day, or as prescribed by the doctor with or without food.
Follow the prescribed dosage regimen of Detrol strictly, without taking more or less of it, and without exceeding the frequency specified by the physician.
Take this medication regularly and do not stop intake with your doctor’s approval.
Side Effects
Listed below are the potential adverse reactions associated with Detrol. If any of them last or worsen, notify your physician or pharmacist promptly.
Common Side Effects
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Headache
Serious Side Effects
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Severe stomach pain or constipation
- Painful or difficult urination
Stop taking Detrol and call your doctor at once if you experience any of the serious side effects mentioned above.
Detrol can cause a cardiac rhythm disorder known as QT prolongation. This rare condition can result in severe symptoms that require immediate medical intervention, such as:
- Irregular and fast heartbeat
- Fainting
- Dizziness
Allergic Reactions
Severe allergic reactions to Detrol are uncommon, however, seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms of an allergic reaction manifest, including:
- Hives
- Swelling (especially of the face/lips/tongue/throat)
- Severe dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
The side effects mentioned above are not the complete list of side effects associated with Detrol. Promptly seek advice from your physician or pharmacist if you encounter any unlisted effects.
Cautions
Before starting treatment with Detrol, inform your doctor and pharmacist of any known allergies, especially with tolterodine, fesoterodine fumarate (Toviaz), or to any inactive ingredient of this medication. Consult your pharmacist for additional information.
Prior to initiating Detrol, apprise your healthcare provider or pharmacist of your medical history, with specific emphasis on:
- Difficulties emptying your bladder (urinary retention, bladder outflow obstruction)
- Severe blockage of stomach/intestines (gastric retention)
- Glaucoma
- Stomach/intestinal disease (such as ulcerative colitis, slowed movement of stomach/intestines)
- Severe constipation
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- A certain muscle disease (myasthenia gravis)
The following products may interact with Detrol:
- Anticholinergic drugs such as atropine and scopolamine
- Other antispasmodic drugs such as dicyclomine and propantheline
- Certain anti-Parkinson’s drugs such as trihexyphenidyl
- Belladonna alkaloids
- Mifepristone
- Potassium tablets/capsules
- Pramlintide
To minimize the risk of drug interactions, inform your physician of all prescription and non-prescription medications, dietary supplements, and herbal products that you are currently taking.
Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following products listed below, which can induce drowsiness. In such instances, your physician may need to adjust the dosage of your medication or supervise you closely for any potential side effects.
- Alcohol
- Marijuana (cannabis)
- Antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine)
- Drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem)
- Muscle relaxants
- Opioid pain relievers (such as codeine)
- Allergy or cough-and-cold products
Due to the potential of Detrol to cause dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, or other vision impairments, refraining from driving a vehicle or operating machinery until you are aware of how this medication may affect you is recommended.
Detrol can decrease sweating, which may increase the risk of heat stroke. To avoid overheating, refrain from strenuous activities and exercise in hot weather or using hot tubs.
During hot weather, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and wearing light clothing. If you experience symptoms of overheating, such as fever, headache, dizziness, or mental/mood changes, seek a cool place to rest and seek immediate medical attention if necessary.