Transdermal oxybutynin: a new treatment for overactive bladder.

Abstract

Overactive bladder has been successfully treated with oral anticholinergic drugs such as oxybutynin chloride. Although oral oxybutynin has been effective in controlling urinary urge incontinence and in decreasing incontinence episodes, adverse events, particularly dry mouth, often cause patients to discontinue oral therapy and to endure incontinence. Transdermal oxybutynin (Oxytrol, Watson Pharmaceuticals) is applied twice-weekly to maintain the efficacy of oral oxybutynin while significantly minimising side effects (e.g., dry mouth) that complicate therapy. By avoiding hepatic and gastrointestinal metabolism of oxybutynin, less N-desethyloxybutynin (N-DEO), the compound thought to be responsible for anticholinergic side effects, such as dry mouth, is produced. The new transdermal oxybutynin formulation offers patients with urinary incontinence an effective, safe and well-tolerated option for managing the symptoms of overactive bladder.

• Authors: G Willy Davila
• Journal: Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy (Expert Opin Pharmacother) Vol. 4 Issue 12 Pg. 2315-24 (Dec 2003) ISSN: 1465-6566 [Print] England
• PMID: 14640930 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Delayed-Action Preparations
• Mandelic Acids
• Muscarinic Antagonists
• oxybutynin

Topics

• Administration, Cutaneous
• Administration, Oral
• Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic
• Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic
• Delayed-Action Preparations
• Humans
• Mandelic Acids (administration & dosage, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use)
• Muscarinic Antagonists (administration & dosage, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use)
• Urinary Incontinence (drug therapy)