Oxytrol

Oxytrol is currently the only bladder control medication that is available in the form of a patch. The patch is prescribed to treat symptoms such as frequent urination, leaking accidents, and urinary urgency. Usually, the patch is changed twice a week (every three to four days). Possible side effects of Oxytrol include itching at the application site, dry mouth, and constipation.

 

What Is Oxytrol?

Oxytrol® (oxybutynin patch) is a prescription medication used to treat an overactive bladder. It is currently the only bladder control medication available in patch form. Oxytrol is approved to help treat the following bladder problems due to an overactive bladder:
 
  • Sudden, frequent urges to urinate (known as urinary urgency)
  • Frequent urination (known as urinary frequency)
  • Leaking accidents (known as urinary incontinence or urge incontinence).
     
(Click Oxytrol Uses for more information on what Oxytrol is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Oxytrol?

Oxytrol is made by Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
 

How Does Oxytrol Work?

Oxytrol belongs to a group of drugs known as antimuscarinic or anticholinergic medications. The drug 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, Oxytrol can help relieve many symptoms of bladder problems.
 

Oxytrol Effects

Studies have shown Oxytrol to be effective for overactive bladder treatment. In clinical studies, people who took Oxytrol significantly reduced the frequency of wetting accidents, compared to people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient). Additionally, people who took Oxytrol used the bathroom less frequently and were able to pass more urine each time they used the bathroom (the frequent muscle contractions of an overactive bladder usually prevent the bladder from holding a normal amount of urine).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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