DETROL (TOLTERODINE TARTRATE)

About Detrol

Detrol belongs to a group of medications known as antispasmodics that are used to treat people with an overactive bladder (OAB). Detrol comes packaged as a pill that should be swallowed whole with or without food. This medication is also available in its generic form, under the name Tolterodine Tartrate. You will need a valid prescription to start taking it. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Detrol and Overactive Bladder

Detrol is prescribed to reduce the symptoms associated with an overactive bladder (OAB). These usually involve urgent or frequent urination, as well as incontinence and night time urination, and are caused by involuntary muscle spasms in the bladder. Overactive bladder symptoms may be caused by a number of conditions that include: neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease; strokes and multiple sclerosis; declining cognitive function due to aging; certain medications; bladder abnormalities; enlarged prostate; constipation; excessive consumption of coffee or alcohol.

Detrol or generic Tolterodine reduces the number of involuntary bladder contractions by preventing spasm of the detrusor muscle that causes them, and increases bladder capacity. Detrol will not cure OAB, but it will provide you with more control by minimizing the muscle spasms responsible. Emotional problems can occur when a person with OAB doesn't seek help and lets their condition affect their work and social life. This condition may affect your self-esteem, professional life, sleep, social activities, and sexual relations. Relief from OAB symptoms may not be seen until about 2 weeks after starting treatment with Detrol, and more improvement is usually seen after 8 weeks.

Before You Take Detrol

Ask your doctor if Detrol is safe to take if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or are breast feeding. Do not start treatment with Detrol until you inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, or glaucoma. List any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements, to be certain Detrol is the right medication for you. You should advise your physician if you have ever experienced any urinary or gastrointestinal issues, especially if you have been diagnosed with a urinary or intestinal blockage.

Detrol Precautions

Detrol does not react well when combined with certain antibiotic, anti-psychotic, and heart rhythm drugs. You should not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. Detrol may make you sleepy or cause blurred vision and so may reduce your safety and ability to perform some tasks.

Possible Detrol Side Effects

• Dry eyes or mouth
• Stomach pain
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Headache
• Constipation
• Blurred vision

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of these more serious side effects: bloody or cloudy urine; painful or difficult urination.