DETRUSITOL 1mg Tablets

What is DETRUSITOL 1mg

DETRUSITOL 1mg is a prescription medicine that contains Tolterodine Tartrate, a muscarinic receptor antagonist. It is specifically used for the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms such as:

• Urinary urgency
• Frequent urination (increased daytime frequency)
• Urge urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine)

The medication comes in tablet form, packaged as 28 tablets (2 blisters of 14 tablets each), and is typically prescribed for adults. DETRUSITOL helps patients regain bladder control by reducing muscle spasms of the urinary bladder, thereby improving quality of life in those with urinary dysfunction.

Tolterodine is often preferred over other antimuscarinic agents because of its bladder-selective action, which offers a balance between efficacy and reduced side effects such as dry mouth or constipation. DETRUSITOL is not intended for immediate relief of urinary symptoms but rather as a long-term management strategy for OAB.

How to use DETRUSITOL 1mg

Proper usage of DETRUSITOL 1mg is crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic results. The medicine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Standard dose: One 1mg tablet taken twice daily (every 12 hours).
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• Food: Can be taken with or without food.

Usage tips:

• Try to take the medicine at the same times every day to maintain even blood levels.
• Consistency is key—do not skip doses even if symptoms improve quickly.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next dose—never double dose.
• It may take several weeks to feel the full benefits; do not stop using it prematurely without consulting your doctor.

Monitoring:

• Regular follow-ups are important to assess treatment response and check for potential side effects.
• In patients with kidney or liver problems, dosage adjustments may be needed.

Always refer to the patient information leaflet and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for best results.

Mode of Action DETRUSITOL 1mg

DETRUSITOL 1mg works by blocking specific receptors in the bladder responsible for involuntary muscle contractions. The active ingredient, Tolterodine Tartrate, is a competitive antagonist of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M2 and M3 subtypes).

• These receptors are found in the smooth muscle of the bladder wall and are activated during bladder filling, leading to urgency or incontinence in OAB.
• Tolterodine selectively blocks these receptors, inhibiting involuntary detrusor (bladder muscle) contractions.
• This helps increase bladder capacity and delays the urge to urinate, reducing frequency and urgency.

Pharmacodynamic characteristics:

• Bladder-selective action helps minimize systemic side effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision).
• Peak plasma concentration occurs within 1-2 hours after oral intake.
• Tolterodine is metabolized in the liver to an active metabolite (5-hydroxymethyl tolterodine) that also contributes to its therapeutic effect.

Overall, DETRUSITOL helps restore bladder control without significantly impairing cognitive or systemic functions, which is important for elderly or sensitive patients. The mode of action provides consistent relief with continued use.

DETRUSITOL 1mg Interactions DETRUSITOL 1mg

DETRUSITOL 1mg may interact with several medications due to its metabolism via the liver enzyme CYP2D6, and to a lesser extent, CYP3A4. These interactions can enhance or reduce the effectiveness of either drug and may increase the risk of side effects.

Medications that may interact:

• Ketoconazole, Itraconazole: Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors that may increase Tolterodine levels.
• Erythromycin, Clarithromycin: Macrolide antibiotics that may affect Tolterodine metabolism.
• Fluoxetine, Paroxetine: Antidepressants that inhibit CYP2D6 and may elevate blood levels of Tolterodine.
• Other anticholinergics: Such as oxybutynin or scopolamine, may increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation).
• Medications that prolong QT interval: Combined use can increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

Safety tips:

• Always inform your doctor about all medicines, including OTC drugs and herbal supplements.
• Particular caution is needed if you have liver or kidney impairment.
• Do not start or stop any medication while on DETRUSITOL without consulting a healthcare provider.

Monitoring may include liver and renal function tests as well as periodic cardiac assessment in high-risk patients.

Dosage of DETRUSITOL 1mg

The dosage of DETRUSITOL 1mg should be individualized based on patient response, age, and the presence of any comorbid conditions such as renal or hepatic impairment.

Typical dosing regimen:

• Adults: 1mg tablet taken twice daily.

Special populations:

• Elderly patients: Often tolerate 1mg twice daily well, but monitor closely for side effects.
• Renal impairment: May require dose adjustment due to decreased clearance of Tolterodine.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution and possible reduction in dose, especially in moderate to severe liver disease.

Dosage considerations:

• Therapeutic response is usually noted within 2–4 weeks of initiation.
• If symptoms persist after 4–8 weeks, re-evaluation of treatment may be necessary.
• Patients should be regularly monitored for side effects and overall benefit.

Do not increase or decrease the dose without medical advice. Even if urinary symptoms improve, continuing treatment as prescribed is essential for sustained relief.

Possible side effects of DETRUSITOL 1mg

Like all medications, DETRUSITOL 1mg may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are due to its anticholinergic activity.

Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 patients):

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain

Uncommon side effects:

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Urinary retention

Rare or serious side effects:

• Allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeats (especially in those with existing heart conditions)
• Confusion or hallucinations (mainly in elderly patients)

What to do:

• Inform your healthcare provider about any persistent or bothersome symptoms.
• Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction or urinary retention.
• Stay hydrated to minimize dry mouth and constipation.

Most side effects can be managed or will reduce over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

DETRUSITOL 1mg Contraindications DETRUSITOL 1mg

DETRUSITOL 1mg should not be used in certain medical conditions due to the risk of exacerbation or serious adverse effects.

Absolute contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to Tolterodine or any of the excipients in the formulation
• Urinary retention
• Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
• Myasthenia gravis
• Severe ulcerative colitis or toxic megacolon

Relative contraindications (use with caution):

• Liver or kidney dysfunction
• History of QT prolongation or arrhythmias
• Gastrointestinal obstructive disorders

Use in special populations:

• Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended as it is unknown whether the drug passes into breast milk.
• Children: Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric populations.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting DETRUSITOL, especially if you have a history of chronic conditions or are taking other medications.

Storage of DETRUSITOL 1mg

Proper storage ensures the medicine remains safe and effective until its expiration date. Follow these storage recommendations for DETRUSITOL 1mg tablets:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 30°C (59°F–86°F).
• Humidity: Keep away from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink.
• Light: Protect from direct light. Store in the original blister pack until use.
• Container: Keep in original packaging to ensure protection and identification.

Disposal guidelines:

• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the box.
• Do not throw unused tablets into wastewater or household garbage.
• Return unused or expired medication to your pharmacist or a designated collection point.

Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Following storage instructions ensures medication potency and safety.