Detrusitol contains the active ingredient tolterodine, which works by relaxing the muscle that is found in the wall of the bladder. As a result, the bladder can hold more urine without there being an urge to urinate, which means fewer bathroom visits.
Detrusitol contains the active ingredient tolterodine, which works by relaxing the muscle that is found in the wall of the bladder. As a result, the bladder can hold more urine without there being an urge to urinate, which means fewer bathroom visits.
Detrusitol is used to treat urge incontinence, a form of urinary incontinence due to an overactive bladder. Urge incontinence occurs when the bladder muscles contract too fast and involuntarily, causing patients to urinate small quantities more frequently or pass urine involuntary. Because Detrusitol influences muscle contraction in the bladder, it can help to reduce urge incontinence.
Detrusitol is available in tablet form for oral administration. The tablets should be swallowed whole with some liquid at about the same time each day. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is best to take Detrusitol with your meal. Detrusitol in intended for the treatment of urge incontinence. It is not effective for other forms of urinary incontinence such as stress urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine on exertion, for example due to coughing or sneezing). If your symptoms do not improve within four weeks, this medicine is probably not the right one for your condition. In such case, you should consult the doctor about an alternative treatment.
Unless otherwise prescribed by the doctor, the usual starting dose for adults is:
The duration of the treatment is decided by the doctor. If you have forgotten to take a dose of Detrusitol, take it as soon as you remember. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package leaflet. Never take a double dose to make up for the forgotten one.
Detrusitol may have side effects, although not everyone gets them. The most commonly reported side effects include:
See package leaflet for more side effects, warnings and contraindications.
Little is known about the effects of Detrusitol on the (unborn) baby. It is therefore not advisable to take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless the doctor advises otherwise. Detrusitol may affect your ability to react. If you feel dizzy, sleepy or your vision is blurred, you should avoid potentially hazardous tasks such as driving or operating machinery. Effects such as drowsiness or sleepiness are made worse by alcohol. It is therefore important to reduce or stop alcohol consumption while taking this medicine.
