Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.
Drowsiness/blurred vision: Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) may cause drowsiness or blurred vision. Avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving, operating machinery, or performing hazardous work, while taking Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) until you are certain that your ability to perform these tasks is not impaired by Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin). Alcohol and other medications that cause drowsiness may increase the drowsiness caused by Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin).
Gastrointestinal disorders: Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) can worsen gastroesophageal reflux caused by hiatus Hernia and can cause serious intestinal problems for people with Ulcerative Colitis. If you have a disorder involving the digestive system, discuss with your doctor how Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Heart conditions: The symptoms of heart disease, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and high blood pressure can be aggravated by Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin). Also, Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) may cause or worsen a heart rhythm problem called QT prolongation. If you are at risk of developing QT prolongation, your doctor will monitor you closely. If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, or fainting, stop taking Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) and seek immediate medical attention.
Heat Stroke: Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) causes a decrease in sweating, which is one of the body's way of cooling off. When Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) is taken during very hot weather, it can cause fever and Heat Stroke due to the body being unable to cool down enough. Take care not to overheat when you are taking this medication. Stay in a cool environment if possible, limit the length of time you spend outdoors, and drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of heat stroke.
Kidney function: If you have reduced kidney function or Kidney Disease, discuss with your doctor how Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: If you have reduced liver function or liver disease, discuss with your doctor how Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Prostate enlargement: The symptoms of prostate enlargement may be worsened by Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin). If you have prostate enlargement or another problem involving the prostate gland, discuss with your doctor how Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Thyroid problems: The symptoms of overactive thyroid may be worsened by Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin). If you have an overactive thyroid, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy: Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin) have not been established for children.
Seniors: Seniors may be at increased risk of side effects when taking Ditropan XL (Oxybutynin). A lower dose may be necessary.
