What it means
A drug that calms bladder spasms, so the client feels the urge less often and leaks less. It comes as tablets, extended-release tablets, a skin patch and a gel. It has typical anticholinergic effects: dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, trouble passing urine, less sweating and, in older adults, confusion.
For the nurse
Do not confuse its name with oxycodone. Teach the client to swallow XL tablets whole, avoid overheating, and report trouble passing urine. The Beers Criteria advise avoiding strong anticholinergics in older adults, especially with dementia.
At a glance
| Drug class | urinary antispasmodic (antimuscarinic) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Ditropan XL, Oxytrol (patch), Gelnique (gel) |
| Also written | Ditropan XL, Oxytrol, Gelnique |
Easy to confuse with
oxycodone
An opioid pain medicine taken by mouth, as quick-acting or long-acting tablets.
Related terms
incontinence
Loss of control over the bladder or bowel, so urine or stool leaks out without the person meaning it to.
urinary retention
Being unable to empty the bladder completely, or at all.
bladder
The hollow, stretchy organ in the lower belly that stores urine until it leaves the body.