Tolterodine
Brand names: Detrol®, Detrol® LA
Chemical formula:
Tolterodine tablets or extended-release capsules
What are tolterodine tablets or extended-release capsules?
TOLTERODINE (Detrol® tablets and Detrol® LA extended-release capsules) help to control an overactive bladder, a chronic condition that can be improved with medication. Tolterodine may reduce the frequency of bathroom visits and may help to control wetting accidents. Generic tolterodine tablets and capsules are not yet available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• difficulty passing urine
• glaucoma
• intestinal obstruction
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• stomach problems like pyloric stenosis or reflux, or other problems with proper emptying of the contents of the stomach
• an unusual or allergic reaction to tolterodine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take tolterodine tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. If you are taking the extended-release capsules, swallow them whole, do not crush, cut, or chew. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What drug(s) may interact with tolterodine?
• alcohol-containing beverages
• atropine
• bosentan
• caffeine
• cisapride
• clarithromycin
• cyclosporine
• diltiazem
• erythromycin
• fluvoxamine
• grapefruit juice
• hyoscyamine
• medicines for fungal infections, like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole or voriconazole
• medicines for treating HIV infection or AIDS
• metoclopramide
• nefazodone
• norfloxacin
• omeprazole
• oxybutinin
• quinidine
• quinine
• scopolamine
• tegaserod
• troleandomycin
• verapamil
• vinblastine
• warfarin
• water pills (diuretics)
• zafirlukast
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking tolterodine?
It may take 2 or 3 months to notice the maximum benefit from this medication. Your health care professional may also recommend techniques that may help improve control of your bladder and sphincter muscles. Such techniques will help train you to need the bathroom less frequently.
You may need to limit your intake tea, coffee, caffeinated sodas, and alcohol; these drinks may aggravate your symptoms. Keeping healthy bowel habits may lessen bladder symptoms. If you currently smoke, quitting smoking may help reduce irritation to the bladder muscle.
You may get dizzy or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires mental alertness until you know how tolterodine affects you.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water, will help.
Tolterodine may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses, you may feel some discomfort. Lubricating drops may help. See your ophthalmologist if the problem does not go away or is severe.
What side effects may I notice from using tolterodine?
Serious side effects are not common. Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
• any signs of an allergic reaction, like itching or hives
• blurred vision or difficulty focusing vision
• confusion
• difficulty passing urine
• severe dizziness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
• constipation
• dry eyes
• dry mouth
• headache
• mild dizziness or drowsiness
• indigestion or stomach discomfort
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
