Examples
| Brand Name | Chemical Name |
| Enablex | darifenacin hydrobromide |
| Ditropan, Ditropan XL, Oxytrol | oxybutynin chloride |
| Vesicare | solifenacin succinate |
| Detrol, Unidet | tolterodine tartrate |
| Sanctura | trospium chloride |
How It Works
These medicines calm the nerves that control bladder muscles. They may prevent uncontrollable bladder contractions that force urine out of the bladder.
Why It Is Used
Antispasmodics and anticholinergics are used to control the symptoms of urge incontinence. These medicines may also be used to treat stress incontinence, especially if you have both stress and urge incontinence.
How Well It Works
Many people taking these medicines have fewer problems with urinary incontinence.1
Side Effects
Side effects vary with some of these medicines and include:
- Dry mouth.
- Headache.
- Decreased sweating, skin rash.
- Nausea, constipation.
- Eye problems.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Skin rash.
- Drowsiness, confusion.
- Nervousness.
- Urinary retention.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Some of these medicines may cause you to sweat less. In hot weather, this could lead to heat exhaustion. Ask your health professional whether you should be careful about being physically active in hot conditions.
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Credits
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology |
| Last Updated | August 10, 2006 |
Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology
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