Compare Oxybutynin vs. Detrol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Oxytrol (Oxybutynin)

Prescription only

Detrol (tolterodine)

Prescription only
Treats an overactive bladder.

Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is a good treatment for overactive bladder, but watch out for side effects such as dry mouth and constipation.

Treats overactive bladder.

Detrol (tolterodine) is a good treatment for overactive bladder after exercises and other methods to control it haven't worked.

Upsides
  • Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is effective at treating overactive bladder by lowering the urge to urinate, and helping to better control urination.
  • Available in multiple forms: a patch, gel, extended-release tablet, and tablet.
  • The gel form of Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is available over the counter without a prescription.
  • Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) patch and gel have fewer side effects than taking the tablet.
  • The tablet is available as a generic.
  • Detrol (tolterodine) is effective at treating overactive bladder by lowering the urge to urinate, and controlling urination.
  • The tablet is available as a generic in both extended and immediate release, so you can take it once or twice a day.
Downsides
  • Generally not recommended to use in people ages 65 and older since it can cause drowsiness and increase the risk of falls.
  • Can’t be used if you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.
  • Not recommended if you have ulcerative colitis or certain other stomach problems since Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) can slow stomach emptying.
  • Not the best choice if you have GERD (acid reflux), since Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) can irritate your throat and make the acid reflux worse.
  • Has more side effects than newer medicines that treat overactive bladder.
  • Detrol (tolterodine) can cause drowsiness, dizziness and can increase your risk for falls.
  • Detrol (tolterodine) can cause severe dry mouth and eyes and constipation.
  • Generally not recommended if you are 65 or older.
  • Do not use if you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended release
  • Liquid
  • Cream, gel, or ointment
  • Patch
  • Pill
  • Extended release
Price
Lowest price
$26.72
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Lowest price
$69.05
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Reviews
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Side effects
The Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
10possible side effects
  • Dry mouth
    23%
  • Headache
    6%
  • Constipation
    6%
  • Stomach pain
    4%
  • Indigestion
    3%
  • Dry eyes
    3%
  • Sleepiness
    3%
  • Tiredness
    2%
  • Dizziness
    2%
  • Flu-like symptoms
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Unusual tongue swelling
  • Driving impairment
    • Taking with alcohol
    • Taking other medicines that make you less alert
  • Heat exhaustion
    • Outside in hot weather
    • Dehydrated
    • Exercising
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Face, lips, neck or throat swelling
  • Dizziness and drowsiness
    • Taking with alcohol
    • Taking other medicines that make you less alert
    • People age 65 or older
  • Vision changes
    • Glaucoma
  • Trouble urinating & stomach problems
    • History of bladder problems
    • History of stomach or intestine problems
  • Heartbeat problems
    • History of heartbeat problems
    • Taking medicines to conrol heartbeat
  • Liver and Kidney problems
    • History of liver problems
    • History of Kidney problems
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Oxytrol (Oxybutynin)
Learn more about Detrol (tolterodine)