Ditropan

Ditropan is used to treat painful urination, frequent urination, and other bladder problems caused by nerve problems. The drug comes in tablet and syrup form, and is typically taken two to four times a day. Most people tolerate Ditropan well, but side effects can still occur. Some of the more common side effects of Ditropan include dry mouth, dizziness, and constipation.

 

What Is Ditropan?

Ditropan® (oxybutynin chloride) is a prescription medication used to treat bladder problems caused by nerve problems (known medically as neurogenic bladder). In particular, Ditropan is approved to treat the following neurogenic bladder symptoms:
 
  • Painful urination (known as dysuria)
  • Frequent urination (known as urinary frequency)
  • Sudden, frequent urges to urinate (known as urinary urgency)
  • Leaking accidents (known as urinary incontinence or urge incontinence).
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Ditropan 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 Uses for more information on what Ditropan is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Ditropan?

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

How Does Ditropan Work?

Ditropan belongs to a group of drugs known as antimuscarinic or anticholinergic medications. Ditropan 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 can help relieve many symptoms of bladder problems.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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