Detrusitol

Uses
Detrusitol (Tolterodine Tartrate) is given to help reduce spasms in the bladder and reduce urinary incontinence or frequent urination. Its mode of action is causing the detrusor muscle to relax. The main ingredient contained in this medicine is known as a competitive muscarinic receptor antagonist. It is known that the contraction of the bladder is triggered by certain receptors known as cholinergic muscarinic receptors. When taken by mouth, this medicine is converted into its active metabolite in the liver.

Following this, it inhibits the muscarinic (sometimes called cholinergic) receptors, which in turn affects the bladder. By preventing contractions of the detrusor muscle (a muscle on the bladder that can cause spasms, resulting in an overactive bladder and increased urination), this medicine is able to relieve the symptoms of an overactive bladder. As a direct result of this, the capacity of the bladder to retain urine is increased and the frequency of urination reduced.

Dosage and Administration
Detrusitol (Tolterodine Tartrate) 2mg tablets are administered by mouth. See your doctor before beginning treatment, so that the correct dosage can be determined. Doctors generally instruct adults treating urinary incontinence or urinary frequency to begin with 2mg, taken twice per day. Following this, the doctor may assess the response to treatment, and adjust the dosage. Maintenance treatment generally requires a dosage of 1mg to 2mg per day. Never take more than the dosage your doctor calculates for you.

Side effects
Patients should note that treatment with Detrusitol (Tolterodine Tartrate) may trigger some side effects. Examples include:

• Vertigo
• Blurring of vision
• Pain in the stomach
• Soreness occurring in the joints
• Dry sensation which affects the eyes

Ensure that you notify the doctor in charge of treatment in the event that any side effects are experienced. In addition to less serious side effects, adverse reactions that are severe in nature are possible. Get medical assistance straight away if you notice a painful sensation while you urinate, hallucinations, fever or any other severe reactions that have not been listed here.

Precautions
Prior to beginning treatment, you must inform the doctor if you suffer from or have a history of liver disease, disorders of the kidney, glaucoma, myasthenia gravis, long QT syndrome or any other medical disorders.

If your vision becomes blurred or if you notice dizziness and drowsiness, avoid driving or performing any other potentially dangerous tasks until you are alert and well enough to do so.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Detrusitol (Tolterodine Tartrate) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.