Oxybutynin Dosage

Oxybutynin (Ditropan) belongs to a group medication called anticholinergics specifically urinary antispasmodics which is used in the treatment of overactive bladder and its related symptoms. Some of the disturbing symptoms caused by increased bladder muscle spasm include urinary incontinence (inability to hold urine), urinary urgency (feeling that one has to urinate), and urinary frequency (need to empty bladder more often). It may also be prescribed for other medical conditions.

What is the usual oxybutynin dosage?

Oxybutynin is available in three dosage forms – tablet, extended release tablet and syrup. It is available as a prescription medication and it is very important to follow the physician’s prescription. Never take more than prescribed and longer than the recommended treatment duration.

Before prescribing, physicians conduct a thorough health review and evaluation to determine the effective amount of medicine that you need. The amount you take depends on four factors: the dosage, the frequency, the time between each dose and the duration of the treatment regimen.

Oxybutynin dosage is individualized depending on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment. Below is general information about the average dose of oxybutynin, as prescribed by most physicians. If you are prescribed with a different dose, do not adjust it without your physician’s approval.

Treatment of Bladder Instability

For adults, the usual oral dose of oxybutynin syrup or tablets is 5 mg taken two or three times a day. Meanwhile, the initial dose for Oxybutynin ER (extended release tablets) is 5 mg or 10 mg once a day. Depending on the patient’s response to the treatment the dose may be adjusted accordingly. Usually, the dose should not exceed 30 mg per day.

For children, the usual oral dose for oxybutynin syrup or tablets is based on the age of the patient.

• Children aged 12 years and up – 5 mg taken twice or thrice a day
• Children aged 5 to 12 years – 5 mg taken twice or thrice a day but may be adjusted depending on the patient’s need. Usually, the dose should not exceed 15 mg per day.
• Children below 5 years of age – Individualized dosage must be prescribed by a physician.

On the other hand, use of Oxybutynin ER (extended release tablets) in children follows a different dosing schedule.

• Children aged 6 years and up – Initial dose is 5 mg taken once a day. The dose may be increased by the physician if necessary. Usually, it does not exceed 20 mg per day.
• Children below 6 years of age – Use is uncommon and is often not recommended.

When taking extended release tablets, do not crush, chew, break or uncover the medication. Swallow the tablet whole along with water or any fluid. As much as possible, take it at the same time of the day.

What if you miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Oxybutynin, you can take it as soon as remember it. However, if the missed dose is almost near the next dose, it is best to skip the dose and continue with the prescribed dosing schedule. Usually, physicians warn their patients about double dosing or taking the missed dose along together with the subsequent dose. Double dosing increases your risk for drug overdose.