Oxybutynin is used to treat the symptoms of an overactive bladder. It is also used to prevent similar symptoms in individuals managing nervous system conditions such as spina bifida or a spinal cord injury.

An overactive bladder causes a frequent and urgent need to urinate. It can be difficult to control these urges, which may result in the involuntary loss of urine (also known as incontinence). Aging, an enlarged prostate, pregnancy, and diabetes are all risk factors for an overactive bladder. This condition can affect people of all ages and genders, however.

Oxybutynin belongs to a classification of medications known as antispasmodics. These drugs work by relaxing the muscles in and around the bladder. This, in effect, reduces muscle spasms and helps relieve the urge to urinate and incontinence symptoms caused by an overactive bladder. Similarly, by relaxing the muscles in the bladder, oxybutynin reduces the overactive bladder symptoms caused by nervous system conditions.

It is important to note that oxybutynin does not cure nervous system conditions such as spina bifida. Instead, it helps individuals managing these conditions control the symptoms of an overactive bladder that occur as a result of an impaired nervous system.

Oxybutynin has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from oxybutynin use include:

• Drowsiness
  
• Nausea
  
• Constipation
  
• Gas/ belching
  
• Headaches
  
• Confusion
  
• Insomnia
  
• Fatigue/ weakness
  

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects caused by oxybutynin. If you experience any severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, skin rash, hives, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or swelling contact your doctor immediately.

As with all prescription medications, inform your prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have and any medications and supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with oxybutynin. Oxybutynin can also interact with other forms of medication and substances, leading to potentially serious side effects. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with oxybutynin. If you become pregnant while taking oxybutynin, notify your health care provider immediately.

Oxybutynin is commonly supplied as either an oral syrup or tablet (for those managing overactive bladder symptoms) or an extended-release tablet (for those managing overactive bladder symptoms caused by a nervous system condition. The exact dosage prescribed will depend on the patient's bodyweight and age.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of oxybutynin without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Oxybutynin is currently only available via prescription. This means that the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not oxybutynin might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for oxybutynin to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.