Oxybutynin: The Medication for Overactive Bladder
What is Oxybutynin?
Oxybutynin is a muscarinic antagonist used to treat overactive bladder (OAB), a condition characterized by frequent urination, urge incontinence, and nocturia (waking up to urinate during the night). It works by relaxing the bladder muscles, helping reduce the frequency of bladder contractions.
How Oxybutynin Works
Oxybutynin blocks the muscarinic receptors in the bladder that are responsible for stimulating involuntary contractions. By inhibiting these receptors, Oxybutynin helps reduce the urgency and frequency of urination.
When to Use Oxybutynin
● Overactive Bladder (OAB): Oxybutynin is used to manage symptoms of OAB, including frequent and urgent urination, and urinary incontinence.
● Bladder Spasms: It is also used to treat bladder spasms caused by conditions like neurogenic bladder.
Dosage
● Adult Dose: Typically, 5 mg to 10 mg orally two to three times a day, with a maximum dose of 30 mg per day.
● Pediatric Dose: For children aged <5 years, the dose is 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/dose twice or thrice a day. For children aged 5-15 years, the dose typically starts at 5 mg once daily, with potential adjustments based on response.
Side Effects
● Common Effects: Dry mouth, dizziness, constipation, and blurred vision.
● Serious Adverse Effects: Urinary retention, tachycardia (fast heart rate), and confusion (especially in the elderly).
Common brands: Oxypas, Tropan