Sometimes we need to go to the bathroom all the time, right? Even if we are planning to go on a short trip or while we are on an important task, it is very inconvenient when this need arises. There are times when some people cannot control their urination. In medical terms, we call this condition "Overactive Bladder". So, a very common and effective medicine for this discomfort is Tolterodine. Today, we will talk about this medicine, what it does, how to use it, and the things to be careful about.
Simply put, what is Tolterodine?
Tolterodine is a drug that relaxes the muscles in your bladder . Imagine your bladder is constantly tightening and sending unnecessary signals to your brain saying, "I need to urinate now." Tolterodine stops that unnecessary muscle tightening and calms your bladder.
The benefits you get from this are:
- The need to urinate frequently decreases.
- Urgency is controlled.
- It helps control involuntary urination (wetting accidents).
In Sri Lanka, this medicine can be found under brand names like Detrol LA. However, it should only be used under the advice of a doctor .
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
Before giving you Tolterodine, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. This medicine may not be compatible with some medical conditions. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor.
| Illness or condition | Why do you need to tell the doctor ? |
|---|---|
| Difficulty urinating | This medicine may make it more difficult to urinate. |
| Glaucoma condition | Glaucoma can worsen by increasing eye pressure. |
| Intestinal Obstruction | It can reduce the functioning of the digestive system. |
| Irregular Heartbeat | It may cause some changes in heart rate. Tell anyone in your family who has this condition. |
| Kidney or liver disease | Since medications are eliminated from the body through these organs, if their function is impaired, the dosage of the medication may need to be adjusted. |
| Myasthenia Gravis | This is due to nerve-related muscle weakness, which can worsen symptoms. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, you should talk to your doctor about the possible effects on the child. |
| Allergies to other medications | Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to Tolterodine or Fesoterodine, or to any other medicines, foods, or preservatives. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
- Swallow this capsule whole with a glass of water .
- Never crush or crush this capsule or chew it like chewing gum. Doing so may change the effectiveness of the medicine.
- Take your medicine at the prescribed times and intervals as prescribed by your doctor. If you take it once a day, try to take it at the same time every day.
- Do not drink more than the prescribed dose.
Important: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you.
What do you do if you forget to take your medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for the missed dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
Making small changes to your lifestyle while using Tolterodine can help you achieve even better results.
It takes a while to get results.
This medicine does not produce immediate results. It may take 2 to 3 months to feel completely better. So don't worry, just keep using it as long as your doctor tells you to.
Be careful about food and drink.
Tea, coffee, caffeinated drinks (like cola) and alcohol can stimulate your bladder and make symptoms worse. So it's best to limit these as much as possible. Also, if you have constipation, it's important to drink plenty of water and eat foods high in fiber, as this can put pressure on your bladder.
Drowsiness and dizziness
This medicine may make some people feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore, avoid dangerous activities such as driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Be careful, especially if you are elderly, when getting up suddenly from a standing position or from a sitting position. This can reduce the risk of dizziness and falls.
Dry mouth and eyes
This is a very common side effect.
- If your mouth is dry: Chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, and drinking lots of water regularly can help.
- If your eyes are dry: You may experience eye discomfort and blurred vision. This discomfort may be more severe if you wear contact lenses. Ask your doctor about using lubricating drops (artificial tears). If this discomfort persists or becomes severe, be sure to tell your doctor.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, Tolterodine can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are common. It is important to be aware of these.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| • Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| • Difficulty breathing | If you feel like you're having trouble breathing. |
| • Mental confusion (Confusion) | Sudden loss of consciousness, loss of consciousness. |
| • Severe difficulty urinating | If it is very difficult to urinate or if urine is stuck in the bladder. |
| • Fast, irregular heartbeat | If the heart rate is unusually high. |
| • Hallucinations | If you see or hear things that are not there. |
| • Swelling of hands and feet | If your limbs swell as if water has accumulated in your body. |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| • Minor changes in vision | Blurred vision. |
| • Constipation | Dry stomach. |
| • Dry mouth and eyes | These can occur commonly. |
| • Headache | Headache. |
| • Dizziness, drowsiness | This may occur as the body adjusts to the medication. |
| • Stomach discomfort | Difficulty in filling the stomach. |
Take-Home Message
- Tolterodine is a medication used to treat frequent urination and difficulty controlling urine (overactive bladder).
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Swallow the medicine whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
- Be aware of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Avoid driving during the initial period of taking the medication.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, severe mental confusion, or severe allergic symptoms.
- If you have any questions about this medicine, please discuss it with your doctor.
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