Oxytrol (oxybutynin transdermal system) is a prescription medication designed for the management of overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency. Utilizing a unique transdermal delivery system, it provides continuous systemic delivery of oxybutynin, bypassing first-pass metabolism to potentially reduce certain side effects commonly associated with oral anticholinergics. This formulation offers a convenient, once-weekly application, supporting consistent therapeutic levels and improved adherence for appropriate patients.

Features

• Transdermal delivery system providing continuous release of oxybutynin
• Each system contains 36 mg of oxybutynin, delivering 3.9 mg per day over 3-4 days
• Thin, flexible, and discreet patch design
• Once-weekly application schedule
• Water-resistant adhesive for secure wear during daily activities

Benefits

• Reduces episodes of urge urinary incontinence
• Decreases urinary urgency and frequency
• Minimizes first-pass hepatic metabolism, potentially reducing anticholinergic side effects
• Convenient dosing schedule improves medication adherence
• Provides steady-state drug levels for consistent symptom control
• Transdermal delivery avoids gastrointestinal variability in absorption

Common use

Oxytrol is indicated for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency. It is typically prescribed when behavioral modifications alone provide insufficient symptom control. The transdermal system may be particularly suitable for patients who experience significant dry mouth or other anticholinergic side effects with oral formulations, or for those who prefer the convenience of weekly dosing rather than daily medication administration.

Dosage and direction

Apply one Oxytrol system to dry, intact skin on the abdomen, hip, or buttock once every 4 days (twice weekly). Rotate application sites, avoiding reapplication to the same skin site within 7 days. The system should be applied to a clean, dry, non-irritated, non-hairy area that will not be subjected to excessive rubbing from clothing. Do not apply to areas where powders, oils, or lotions have been recently used, as this may interfere with adhesion. If the patch becomes loose, it may be reinforced with adhesive overlays. If the patch falls off, apply a new system to a different site and continue with the original dosing schedule.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for anticholinergic CNS effects, particularly in the elderly. Use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Avoid exposure of application site to external heat sources (heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, prolonged direct sunlight), as increased absorption may occur. The patch should be disposed of carefully to prevent accidental application or ingestion by children or pets. Patients with gastrointestinal obstructive disorders, decreased gastrointestinal motility, or ulcerative colitis should use with caution due to anticholinergic effects on gastrointestinal motility.

Contraindications

Oxytrol is contraindicated in patients with urinary retention, gastric retention, or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma. It is also contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated hypersensitivity to oxybutynin or other components of the transdermal system. Patients with known hypersensitivity reactions to similar transdermal systems should avoid use.

Possible side effects

The most common side effects include application site reactions (pruritus, erythema, rash), dry mouth, constipation, and somnolence. Less frequently reported effects include dizziness, blurred vision, difficulty voiding, gastrointestinal discomfort, and dry eyes. Systemic anticholinergic effects may occur, though typically less frequently than with oral formulations. Application site reactions usually resolve spontaneously within a few hours to days after patch removal.

Drug interaction

Oxytrol may potentiate effects of other drugs with anticholinergic properties. Concurrent use with other anticholinergic agents may increase frequency and/or severity of dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness, and other anticholinergic effects. Use with caution with CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) which may increase oxybutynin concentrations. May interact with drugs affecting gastrointestinal motility. Monitor patients taking concomitant medications that are metabolized by CYP2D6 or CYP3A4.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply the patch as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next application, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not apply extra patches to make up for a missed dose. Maintain the twice-weekly application schedule without doubling doses.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe anticholinergic effects including blurred vision, dilated pupils, hot dry skin, fever, tachycardia, urinary retention, constipation, nervousness, and hallucinations. In severe cases, delirium, psychosis, convulsions, respiratory depression, or cardiovascular collapse may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Emptying the stomach may be beneficial if ingestion occurred. Physostigmine may be considered in severe cases under close monitoring.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep in original pouch until time of use. Do not store outside the sealed pouch. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not freeze. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Oxytrol is available by prescription only and should be used under appropriate medical supervision. Individual results may vary. Consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Do not initiate or discontinue medication without consulting your physician.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Oxytrol provides significant improvement in overactive bladder symptoms with favorable tolerability profile. Many patients report preference for transdermal delivery over oral formulations due to reduced dry mouth and convenience of weekly dosing. Application site reactions remain the most commonly reported adverse effect, though typically mild and self-limiting. Long-term studies show maintained efficacy with continuous use. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate improved quality of life measures related to bladder control and treatment convenience.