Ditropan XL

Ditropan XL is used to treat bladder problems such as frequent urination and sudden urges to urinate. By blocking certain receptors in the bladder, the drug helps to relax the bladder muscle and reduce symptoms of bladder problems. Ditropan XL comes in the form of a tablet that is taken once a day. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, and drowsiness.

 

What Is Ditropan XL?

Ditropan XL® (oxybutynin ER) is a prescription medication used to treat an overactive bladder. In particular, Ditropan XL is approved to help treat the following bladder problems due to an overactive bladder:
 
  • Frequent urination (known as urinary frequency)
  • Sudden, frequent urges to urinate (known as urinary urgency)
  • Leaking accidents (known as urinary incontinence or urge incontinence).
     
Ditropan XL is also approved to treat bladder problems due to overactive bladder muscles (caused by spina bifida or other neurological problems) in children age six years and older.
 
(Click Ditropan XL Uses for more information on what Ditropan XL is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Ditropan XL?

Ditropan XL is made by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc. Generic Ditropan XL is made by a few different manufacturers.
 

How Does Ditropan XL Work?

Ditropan XL belongs to a group of drugs known as antimuscarinic or anticholinergic medications. Ditropan XL works for bladder problems by blocking specific receptors (called muscarinic receptors) in the bladder, helping to relax the muscles of the bladder. Since an overactive bladder is often due to bladder muscle contractions that are too frequent and uncontrollable, Ditropan XL can help relieve many bladder problem symptoms.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;