Generic Detrol La

Detrol LA, which is generically prescribed as tolterodine, is commonly used to treat overactive bladder and incontinence, and urinary urgency. Detrol LA reduces spasms of the bladder by relaxing the muscles.

Detrol LA is not appropriate for everyone. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to prescribing this medication. Patients with a medical history that includes a blockage in the intestinal tract, a urinary tract blockage, untreated glaucoma, or uncontrolled glaucoma can not take Detrol LA. Patients with a medical history which includes glaucoma, liver disease, kidney disease, or a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome may not be able to take Detrol LA or may require careful monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with this medication, depending on the condition or the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration rated this medication as a pregnancy risk category C. Detrol LA is likely to cause harm or birth defects to an unborn baby. This medication passes through the mother’s breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should avoid prescribing this medication to a pregnant or nursing woman, or a woman who is likely to become pregnant.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Detrol LA, some of which are severe. A patient experiencing a serious side effect or an allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency medical attention. An allergic reaction will present with symptoms such as facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, mouth, throat, or tongue, hives, and difficulty breathing. Other serious side effects which require emergency medical treatment include symptoms such as shortness of breath, fast heart rate, chest pain, decreased urination, no urination, or painful or difficult urination.

Other less serious side effects typically do not require emergency medical care but should be reported to the prescribing physician. Patients should be encouraged to report all side effects. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as blurry vision, dry mouth, dry eyes, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, diarrhea, headache, joint pain, stomach pain, or upset stomach. Less serious side effects can often be reduced to a tolerable level by reducing the dosage of Detrol LA.

Detrol LA should be taken exactly as prescribed. If the patient misses a dose, the dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid the potential for an overdose. The patient should never take a double dose of this medication. If an overdose is suspected, the patient should seek immediate emergency medical attention. An over dose will present with symptoms which include blurry vision, dry mouth, fast heart rate.

There is a risk of negative drug interactions associated with Detrol LA. A thorough medical history should be understood prior to prescribing this medication. Patients should be urged to inquire with the prescribing physician before taking any new medications, including over the counter medications and herbal remedies. Medications which are known to negatively interact with Detrol LA include arsenic trioxide, bepridil, cisapride, chloroquine, cyclosporine, droperidol, narcotic medications, methadone, pentamidine, vinblastine, antibiotics, psychiatric medications, and heart rhythm medications.

This medication is time released and must be swallowed whole with a full glass of water in order to work effectively. Patients should be discouraged from crushing the tablets.