Description
Generic Name: tolterodine tartrate
Drug Class: anticholinergic
Detrol LA Uses
Detrol LA is an oral prescription drug used to treat overactive bladder. It relieves symptoms such as going to the bathroom frequently, feeling of having to urinate right away, and involuntary leakage of urine.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Detrol LA 4 mg and 2 mg extended-release capsules.
Detrol LA Mechanism of Action
It works as a competitive acetylcholine antagonist for postganglionic muscarinic receptors. It is metabolized in the liver, leading to the formation of 5-hydroxymethyl tolterodine. 5-HMT can exhibit antimuscarinic activity like tolterodine. As a result, this drug helps relax the muscle in the urinary bladder and improves the ability to control the urine.
How to Take Detrol LA
It is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide provided by a healthcare provider before beginning to use Detrol LA. You must not take any medication unless you have understood the uses and directions. For more medical advice or information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
The only way to take Detrol LA is by mouth. This is usually prescribed once a day and preferably at the same time each day. It can be consumed with or without food. Swallow the extended-release tablet entirely and drink fluids right after. Cutting, crushing, or chewing this product is not recommended because doing so can hamper the long-acting effect of the drug and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your doses. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
Detrol LA Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Headache
-Drowsiness
-Tiredness
-Blurred vision
-Dry eyes
-Dry mouth
-Stomach upset
-Constipation
Severe Side Effects:
-Severe abdominal pain
-Difficulty urinating
-Lower back pain
-Fever
-Severe dizziness
-Fainting
-Vision changes
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Detrol LA.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and report side effects to your doctor or healthcare professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to tolterodine, fesoterodine, or any inactive ingredients the extended-release tablet may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. Stop using this oral medication and seek emergency medical treatment right away if this happens.
Detrol LA may be contraindicated for people with a history of gastrointestinal blockage, bladder outflow obstruction, gastrointestinal disorder, severe constipation, liver disease, kidney disease, myasthenia gravis, and glaucoma. You should also discuss all of your prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal products with your doctor owing to the possibility of drug interactions.
This oral drug can cause QT prolongation, which could be considered a medical emergency. Symptoms are severe dizziness and fainting. You may prevent this by staying hydrated and avoiding water pills. Low potassium and magnesium levels in the blood should also be checked because they might cause QT prolongation.
Dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision are among the common adverse reactions to Detrol LA. Practice safety caution when doing tasks that would need alertness and clear vision, especially driving. You must also limit drinking alcohol while taking this drug because alcohol can worsen the adverse effects.
Tolterodine can decrease sweating which could increase the risk of heatstroke. If the weather is humid/hot, you should avoid overheating by staying in a cool place, wearing light clothes, and staying hydrated.
Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must take this oral drug only if extremely necessary. It is necessary to discuss all the possible risks with a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the drug Detrol LA used for?
Detrol LA (generic: tolterodine) is indicated to treat overactive bladder. It relaxes bladder muscles, thereby relieving urinary incontinence, frequency, and urgency.
What is the difference between Detrol and Detrol LA?
While Detrol comes in 1 mg and 2 mg film-coated tablets, Detrol LA is available in 2 mg and 4 mg extended-release tablets and has a “long-acting” effect.
How long does it take Detrol LA to work?
This oral medication can start to relieve symptoms within 5 days, but its full benefits may take 5 to 8 weeks. Tolterodine does not work right away.
When should I take Detrol LA?
There is no definite time to take this antimuscarinic. You may take it any time of the day, provided that you follow a dosing schedule.
Does Detrol LA make you sleepy?
Yes, among the common side effects of this drug is drowsiness. Other common adverse reactions are dizziness, headache, and tiredness.
Is Detrol LA over the counter?
This product is a prescription drug. You need to have a valid prescription before purchasing from any pharmacy.
What is the cost of Detrol LA?
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