Drug Uses

DETROL is very useful in treating overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary frequency, urgency, and leakage and it works by blocking a chemical that causes contractions of the bladder.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.
You may choose to take DETROL with a meal to avoid an upset stomach or without one.
Please drink a full glass of water or other non-alcoholic drink with DETROL.
It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.
Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.


Drug Class and Mechanism

DETROL falls under antimuscarinic agent and it works by blocking a chemical that causes contractions of the bladder.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.
Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store DETROL at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F(15 and 30 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using DETROL if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like urinary or gastric retention, or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.
Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.
If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using DETROL to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.
If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using DETROL as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.

Side Effects

Most medications have some kind of side effects associated with them. The commonest of these side effects are temporary and mild and fade away without any special attention.
These include abnormal skin sensations; blurred vision; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry eyes; dry mouth; feeling of a whirling motion; flu-like symptoms; headache; indigestion; joint pain; nausea; stomach pain; upper respiratory tract infection; vomiting.
However, in some cases, these mild side effects may persist or become bothersome. In such cases, seek medical attention.
Also, in some rare cases, it may lead to severe side effects like severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; fast heartbeat; hallucinations; pounding in the chest; severe dizziness; swelling of the arms and legs; urination problems.
Seek medical attention if you notice any of these side effects.

Side effects that are not listed here may also occur.