Detrol (tolterodine) is a medication used to manage overactive bladder, a condition in which you cannot control urination. MedlinePlus says that Detrol is an antimuscarinic medication that stops your bladder muscles from contracting. Detrol is available as a capsule, and you will typically take 4mg of it daily, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
In a placebo-controlled study of 505 patients receiving Detrol, the National Library of Medicine found that 23 percent had dry mouth, 6 percent developed a headache, 2 percent experienced fatigue and dizziness, while 6 percent were constipated. Additionally, 4 percent developed stomach pain, 3 percent had indigestion, 1 percent experienced visual problems, 3 percent were drowsy, 1 percent developed anxiety, 2 percent developed a sinus infection and 1 percent experienced dysuria (pain with urination). Tell your physician when these side effects persist for three to five days.
Serious Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Detrol can cause chest pain, tachycardia (fast heartbeat) and arrythmia (irregular heartbeat). Changes in your heart rhythm can affect the amount of blood that reaches your vital organs. Prolonged tachycardia or arrythmia may lead to fainting spells and even death. Detrol can also cause trouble breathing with minimal activity, fast weight gain, confusion, hallucinations and decreased urination. Infrequent urination can cause dehydration and even acute renal (kidney) failure if left untreated. Drink plenty of water and call your doctor when you develop any of the aforementioned effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Detrol if you have any allergies to tolterodine. You can develop a serious allergic reaction. Symptoms of an a Detrol allergy include difficulty breathing, swelling up of your throat and face, and hives.
Prior to taking Detrol, inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, or a heart rhythm disorder called long QT syndrome. Detrol can make these medical conditions worse.
It is not clear if Detrol can pass into your breast milk and affect your unborn child. Notify your doctor if you plan to breastfeed or if you are pregnant.
Do not combine Detrol with arsenic trioxide, vinblastine, pentamidine, chloroquine, droperidol or cyclosporine. Combining Detrol with these drugs can cause the aforementioned side effects.
Member Comments