GoodRx Holdings Inc.

10/10/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/10/2024 15:55

6 Oxybutynin Interactions: Benadryl, Metoclopramide, and More

Oxybutyninis an oral medication that treats symptoms ofoveractive bladder(OAB). It also comes as a transdermal patch (Oxytrol, Oxytrol for Women) that you apply to the skin. Oxybutynin can be helpful for many people, but it may not be right for everyone.

Before starting treatment with oxybutynin, it's good to be aware of its potentialdrug interactions. Your healthcare team can be a helpful resource for managing these up front. So be sure to share your currentmedication listwith them to review.

Here, we'll cover six notableoxybutynin interactionsand strategies for managing them.

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1. Anticholinergic medications such as Benadryl

Oxybutynin is ananticholinergic medication. It blocks the effects of a chemical calledacetylcholine. Acetylcholine has several roles in the body, including bladder emptying. If you have OAB, anticholinergics like oxybutynin reduce the urge to pee.

But anticholinergics have othereffects, too. And as a result, they commonly cause side effects like dry mouth and constipation. Confusion, which canincrease the risk of falls, is also possible. Combining oxybutynin with other anticholinergic medications can make these side effects worse. Other anticholinergic medications include:

It's usually best to avoid taking multiple anticholinergic medications at once, if possible. This is especially true forolder adults. There may be situations in which your prescriber recommends taking more than one. In that case, it's a good idea to alert them to any new or bothersome side effects you experience.

2. Antifungals such as ketoconazole

Azole antifungals, such as ketoconazole, blockliver enzymes(proteins) that break down oxybutynin. This can cause higher levels of oxybutynin in the body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.

If you need to take an antifungal, your prescriber may temporarily lower your oxybutynin dosage. But be sure to tell them if you notice new or worsening side effects.

3. Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide(Reglan) treats symptoms ofgastroparesis(slowed stomach emptying) caused by diabetes. It's also sometimes used to treat health conditions likegastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD). The medication helps food move faster through your digestive tract. But oxybutynin can have the opposite effect, slowing down digestion.

When taken together, oxybutynin can make metoclopramide less effective. Because of this, your prescriber may recommend an alternative medication.

4. Medications that cause drowsiness

Oxybutynin can cause drowsiness. And taking it with othermedications that cause drowsinesscan worsen the effects. It can also make activities that require you to be alert, such as driving a car, more dangerous.

Other medications that can cause drowsiness include:

Your prescriber will help you manage this interaction, if needed. But be sure to let them know if you notice that you're feeling extra tired or sleepy after a medication change.

Keep in mind:Several factorsbeyond medication can cause drowsiness. If you're feeling sleepy, look at your sleep schedule, stress levels, and exercise routine. How much caffeine you drink and any other health conditions you have could also play a role.

5. Medications that cause dry mouth

As mentioned,dry mouthis a common oxybutynin side effect. Taking it with othermedications that cause dry mouthcan make this side effect worse. These medications include:

  • Other medications that treat OAB, such as tolterodine (Detrol) and solifenacin (Vesicare)
  • Otheranticholinergic medications
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Opioids
  • Stimulants, such asAdderall(amphetamine salts) andRitalin(methylphenidate)
  • Antipsychotic medications, such asquetiapine(Seroquel) andrisperidone(Risperdal)

Dry mouth isn't usually serious, but it can be uncomfortable. It can also increase your risk fordental problemslong term. Some things you cantry at hometo relieve dry mouth include:

  • Chewing sugar-free gum
  • Sucking on ice chips
  • Sipping cool liquids throughout the day
  • Using saliva substitutes such as BioXtra or Biotene

If you have dry mouth that becomes bothersome, let your prescriber know. They may be able to lower your dosage of oxybutynin or recommend an alternative medication.

6. Medications that can cause constipation

Oxybutynin can also cause constipation, as discussed above. This side effect can be worse if you take oxybutynin with othermedications that cause constipation. Examples include:

Staying hydrated, eating plenty offiber, and exercising can helpprevent and treat constipation. But if you have constipation that's persistent or gets worse, talk to your prescriber. They may suggest constipation remedies, such aslaxatives, or adjustments to your medications.

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Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic medication for overactive bladder. It can interact with other anticholinergic medications. Examples include diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and scopolamine (Transderm Scop). It can also interact with medications that cause dry mouth, constipation, or drowsiness.

Tell your healthcare team if you have new or worsening side effects while taking oxybutynin, as your symptoms could be due to an interaction. Providing them with a current medication list can also help them check for possible interactions up front.