What it is used for

Overactive bladder, urgency and urge incontinence
Bedwetting in children, when other treatments have not worked
Bladder problems caused by nerve conditions

Read our guides:

Urinary incontinence

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)

How it works

Oxybutynin blocks acetylcholine receptors on the bladder muscle. This reduces sudden contractions, so you can hold more urine and feel less urgency.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Oxybutynin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

dry mouth
constipation
blurred vision
feeling dizzy or sleepy
headache
dry eyes

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

being unable to pee
confusion, memory problems or seeing things that are not there, especially in older people
eye pain with blurred vision

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It may affect memory and thinking in older people. Long-term use of this type of medicine has been linked to a higher risk of dementia. Your doctor may suggest a different option.
Avoid getting too hot, as it reduces sweating.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.