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Side Effects of Detrol LA Caps

Detrol is the brand name of the prescription drug tolterodine tartrate. Detrol LA is the extended release formula of the drub. Pfizer, Inc. developed and markets the popular medication for the treatment of overactive bladder to control sudden and frequent urges to urinate. Tolterodine is an antimuscarinic drug that interferes with the chemical that produces involuntary bladder contractions. Although Detrol and Detrol LA have been extensively tested, as with all drugs there is some risk of side effects.

  1. Effects

    • The most common side effects experienced by people who have taken Detrol LA are dry mouth, headache, constipation and abdominal pain. Maintaining adequate hydration by drinking water regularly throughout the day can help to alleviate dry mouth and may also aid in preventing the other side effects. Patients taking Detrol LA should avoid caffeine, citrus fruit juice, alcohol and tobacco as all of these products contribute to dry mouth. Avoid laxatives unless advised by your doctor. Increasing your intake of dietary fiber may also help prevent constipation.

    Considerations

    • Some patients have reported blurred vision when taking Detrol LA. Never operate a vehicle or machinery until you know how Detrol LA will affect your vision. If you experience blurred vision you should contact your health care provider immediately to determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking Detrol LA.

    Warning

    • Flu-like symptoms have been reported in some instances. Dry eyes, dizziness, vertigo, diarrhea, drowsiness, and dizziness are also possible side effects of taking Detrol LA. If you experience any of these symptoms you should contact your doctor because while they may be side effects of Detrol LA, they may be cause by another medication, or they could be indicative of some other medical problem.

    Interaction

    • Detrol LA can react adversely when taken in conjunction with some other prescription and non-prescription drugs and supplements. Always tell your doctor all medications that you are taking, including vitamins and food supplements. Drugs with known interaction problems include Clarithromycin, Cyclosporine, Erythromycin, Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Miconazole and Vinblastine.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Although Detrol LA is well tolerated by most patients, it is not recommended for patients who are allergic to tolterodine, have glaucoma, or are experiencing certain types of urinary or stomach problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have difficulty passing urine or have any blockage or the bladder or bowel.

    Pregnancy

    • Detrol LA is not recommended for women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding because the drug has not been adequately tested in these cases. It is not currently known whether Detrol LA can be passed through breast milk to a baby.

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