What it is used for

Overactive bladder, urgency and urge incontinence

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.

Tolterodine is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Tolterodine blocks acetylcholine receptors on the bladder muscle, so the bladder squeezes less suddenly and can hold more.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Tolterodine 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
headache
dry eyes
blurred vision
dizziness

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
a fast or irregular heartbeat
confusion, especially in older people

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

Long-term use of this type of medicine has been linked with memory problems in older people.

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.