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Tolterodine Coupon - Tolterodine 2mg tablet

tolterodine

Generic Detrol
Used for Overactive Bladder
Used for Overactive Bladder

Tolterodine (Detrol) is used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, such as loss of bladder control and the need to go to the restroom suddenly or often. This medication can commonly cause dry mouth, but other side effects can include headache, dizziness, and constipation. There are immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) versions of tolterodine (Detrol). Both formulations are available as brand-name and generic-name medications. Tolterodine (Detrol) can interact with anticholinergics, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl).

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ashley Wong, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 2, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Tolterodine (Detrol)?

What is Tolterodine (Detrol) used for?

  • Overactive bladder (OAB)

How Tolterodine (Detrol) works

Tolterodine (Detrol) is an anticholinergic medication that's considered a urinary antispasmodic. It blocks certain receptors in the bladder so that your bladder muscles can relax. This helps with bladder spasms, the urge to urinate, and control over your urination.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDetrol, Detrol LA
Drug ClassUrinary antispasmodic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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$157.99(save 81.80%)
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$28.76
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What are the side effects of Tolterodine (Detrol)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dry mouth (up to 35%)
  • Headache (up to 7%)
  • Constipation (up to 7%)
  • Stomach pain (up to 5%)
  • Dizziness or feeling like your surroundings are spinning (up to 5%)

Other Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Dry eyes
  • Swollen sinuses
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Painful urination

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reactions: unusual swelling (angioedema), trouble breathing, blockage in the airway

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Abnormal vision, including difficulty with adjusting to distances

bloody or cloudy urine

difficult, burning, or painful urination

frequent urge to urinate

Less common

Chest pain

chills

cough

diarrhea

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

headache

joint pain

loss of appetite

muscle aches and pains

nausea

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

shivering

shortness of breath or troubled breathing

sore throat

stuffy or runny nose

sweating

tightness of the chest or wheezing

trouble with sleeping

vomiting

Incidence not known

Being forgetful

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, ankles, lower legs, or feet

confusion about identity, place, and time

difficulty with swallowing

dizziness

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

hives

itching

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

mood or mental changes

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

rapid weight gain

seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there

skin rash

tingling of the hands or feet

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusual weight gain or loss

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Abdominal or stomach pain

constipation

drowsiness

dry eyes

dry mouth

upset stomach

Less common

Acid or sour stomach

belching

blurred vision

difficulty with moving

dizziness or lightheadedness

dry skin

fear or nervousness

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

heartburn

indigestion

sensation of spinning

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

stomach discomfort

weight gain

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Tolterodine (Detrol)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works well for OAB symptoms by helping you control your urge to urinate

Causes less dry mouth than oxybutynin

Extended-release version is taken only once a day

Available as a lower-cost, generic version

thumbs-down

Cons

Can raise your risk for falls because it can make you feel drowsy or dizzy

Can cause severe dry mouth and constipation

Can't use if you have an allergy to Toviaz (fesoterodine), which is another OAB medication

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Tolterodine (Detrol)

pharmacist

  • You can take tolterodine (Detrol) with or without food. Food won't affect how well this medication works.

    • For the extended-release capsules: Take the extended-release capsules with water, and swallow them whole. Don't break, crush, or chew the capsules.

      • Take tolterodine (Detrol) every day even if you don't see results right away. For the medication to work well, you have to take it consistently. Lifestyle changes, such as pelvic muscle exercises and changes to your diet, can also help with OAB symptoms.

        • Tolterodine (Detrol) can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurry vision. Don't drive or do things that require your full attention until you know how this medication makes you feel.

          • If you experience dry mouth while taking tolterodine (Detrol), try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on a sugar-free hard candy. If it's really bothersome, ask your provider about switching to the extended-release form because it might cause fewer side effects.

            • Make sure you're not taking tolterodine (Detrol) with other anticholinergics, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl). These medications work similarly to tolterodine (Detrol), and they have similar side effects. Taking anticholinergic medications with tolterodine (Detrol) can make side effects, like dry mouth, headache, and dizziness, worse.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Tolterodine (Detrol)

              How long does tolterodine (Detrol) take to work?
              According to a small study, it could take up to 7 days for the immediate-release version of tolterodine (Detrol) to start relieving OAB symptoms. In a different study, the extended-release version started to work as soon as 5 days of starting treatment. Keep in mind that it could take 5 to 8 weeks for you to feel the full effects of the medication. It's important to continue taking tolterodine (Detrol) every day, even if you don't see improvement in your OAB symptoms right away. Follow up with your provider regularly about how well the medication is working for you.
              What's the best time to take tolterodine (Detrol)?
              There isn't any particular time you should take tolterodine (Detrol). What's important is that you take your dose at the same time each day. Since the immediate-release version is taken two times a day, an easy way to remember to take tolterodine (Detrol) could be once in the morning and once in the evening. For the extended-release version, you only need to take the medication once a day at any time of day. Since tolterodine (Detrol) can cause dizziness and drowsiness, it might be best to take your dose closer to bedtime if you decide to take it in the evening.
              What's the difference between the tolterodine (Detrol) immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules?
              The immediate-release tablets come in 1 mg and 2 mg tablets, and they're taken two times a day. The extended-release capsules come in 2 mg and 4 mg capsules, and they're taken once a day. You only have to take the extended-release capsules once a day because it's slowly released in the body throughout the day and lasts longer.
              What's the difference between tolterodine (Detrol) and oxybutynin (Ditropan)?
              Tolterodine (Detrol) and oxybutynin (Ditropan) are two different medications, but they can both be used for OAB. They work similarly to each other. But some studies suggest that oxybutynin (Ditropan) might work better to control OAB symptoms than tolterodine (Detrol). On the other hand, tolterodine (Detrol) appears to cause less dry mouth than oxybutynin (Ditropan). Learn more about the similarities and differences between tolterodine (Detrol) and oxybutynin (Ditropan). Talk to your provider about which medication is right for you.
              Can you take tolterodine (Detrol) with other OAB medications?
              It depends on which OAB medications you're considering to take with tolterodine (Detrol). Taking other anticholinergic OAB medications, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan), with tolterodine (Detrol) isn't a good idea because they work in the same way as tolterodine (Detrol). Taking more than one anticholinergic medication can raise your risk of side effects, like dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and more seriously, confusion, and hallucinations. On the other hand, Myrbetriq (mirabegron) and Gemtesa (vibegron) work differently from tolterodine (Detrol) to help with your OAB. So, your provider might recommend that you take these medications with tolterodine (Detrol) if you still have symptoms after taking the highest tolerated dose of one medication.
              Will tolterodine (Detrol) cause memory loss?
              Some people taking tolterodine (Detrol) reported having memory problems. Tolterodine (Detrol) is an anticholinergic medication, and this class of medications has been linked to dementia. One study showed that people who take anticholinergic medications for urinary issues are at a greater risk of dementia, which could appear up to 20 years after taking the medication. Speak with your provider if you're concerned about the risk of memory loss with tolterodine (Detrol) treatment.
              Should I avoid drinking water while I'm taking tolterodine (Detrol) for overactive bladder symptoms?
              No, avoiding water can actually make your OAB symptoms worse and make you dehydrated. It's important to stay hydrated and find the right balance of water to drink. Spread out your fluid intake throughout the day. Try not to drink large amounts of water at once because this can make your OAB symptoms worse. It might be tempting to drink a lot water if you have dry mouth as a side effect of tolterodine (Detrol). Instead, try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on a sugar-free hard candy to help.
              Can tolterodine (Detrol) cause urinary retention?
              Tolterodine (Detrol) can make you have trouble urinating. Your risk might be higher if you have a history of urinary blockage (e.g., men with an enlarged prostate). Make sure to tell your provider about your full medical history before starting this medication.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Tolterodine (Detrol)?

              Tolterodine (Detrol) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Unusual swelling of the face, lips, or throat (angioedema)

              Tolterodine (Detrol) can cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. This can happen right after taking the first dose or after taking the medication for a while. If you experience facial swelling, difficulty breathing, a blockage in your airway, or sudden dizziness, stop taking the medication and get emergency medical help right away.

              risk-warning

              Dizziness and drowsiness

              • Risk factors: Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that make you less alert

                Tolterodine (Detrol) can make you feel dizzy, drowsy, or less alert, particularly when you first start the medication or increase your dose. Don't drive or do things that require you to focus until you know how this medication affects you.

                risk-warning

                Vision changes

                • Risk factors: History of narrow-angle glaucoma

                  Tolterodine (Detrol) can cause temporary changes to your vision, like blurred vision. Though rare, anticholinergic medications like tolterodine (Detrol) can also raise the risk of narrow-angle glaucoma. Tolterodine (Detrol) can't be used if you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma. Check with your eye doctor if you're unsure what type of glaucoma you have.

                  risk-warning

                  Trouble urinating and stomach problems

                  • Risk factors: History of bladder problems | History of stomach or intestine problems

                    Let your healthcare provider know if you have problems urinating due to a blockage in your bladder. Tolterodine (Detrol) can make it difficult for you to empty your bladder fully. This can worsen your bladder problem.

                    Also tell your provider if you have blockages in your stomach or intestines. Tolterodine (Detrol) can slow down your digestion, which can make your stomach symptoms worse.

                    risk-warning

                    Possible higher risk of side effects in people with liver and kidney problems

                    • Risk factors: History of liver or kidney problems

                      Let your healthcare provider know if you have liver or kidney problems. Your liver helps break down tolterodine (Detrol) in the body, and your kidneys help get rid of the medication from your system. When these organs aren't working well, the medication can stay in your body longer and build up. This might raise the risk of side effects, such as dry mouth and dizziness. To lower this risk, your provider might prescribe a lower dose of tolterodine (Detrol) for you if you have liver or kidney problems. But, tolterodine (Detrol) isn't recommended if you have severe liver or kidney disease.

                      risk-warning

                      Caution use in people with myasthenia gravis

                      If you have myasthenia gravis (MG), a condition that causes your muscles to feel weak, talk to your provider before taking tolterodine (Detrol). This medication can worsen your MG symptoms.

                      risk-warning

                      Caution use in people with heart rhythm problems

                      • Risk factors: History of heart rhythm problems | Taking medications to control heartbeat

                        Let your healthcare provider know if you're taking medications to control your heartbeat or if you have an irregular heart rhythm. Tolterodine (Detrol) might cause changes in your heartbeat that can be dangerous. Your provider will discuss with you about the risks and benefits of taking this medication.

                        dosage

                        Tolterodine (Detrol) dosage forms

                        The average cost for 60 tablets of 2mg of Tolterodine (Detrol) is $29.19 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 81.53% off the average retail price of $157.99.
                        tablet
                        Tablet
                        DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                        1mg60 tablets$28.76$0.48
                        2mg60 tablets$29.19$0.49

                        Typical dosing for Tolterodine (Detrol)

                        The typical starting dose is 2 mg by mouth two times a day. Your healthcare provider might lower the dose to 1 mg two times a day based on how you respond to the medication.

                        • Extended-release capsules: The typical starting dose is 4 mg by mouth once a day with water. Your healthcare provider might lower the dose to 2 mg once a day depending on how you respond to the medication.

                        Your dose might differ if you have kidney problems, liver problems, or if you take certain medications that interact with tolterodine (Detrol).

                        interactions

                        Interactions between Tolterodine (Detrol) and other drugs

                        Tolterodine (Detrol) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Tolterodine (Detrol). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                        contraindications-icon

                        Tolterodine (Detrol) contraindications

                        Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Tolterodine (Detrol) will not be safe for you to take.
                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Tolterodine (Detrol)?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Tolterodine (Detrol). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                        Tolterodine (Detrol)
                        Used for:

                        • Overactive bladder (OAB)

                        $28.76 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        Oxybutynin
                        Used for:

                        • Overactive bladder

                        • Incontinence in children due to a neurologic (brain) condition, such as spina bifida

                        $8.50 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        Solifenacin (Vesicare)
                        Used for:
                        $14.75 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        images

                        Tolterodine (Detrol) images

                        White Round 240 And U - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "240" And "U".White Round 240 And U - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        White Round J And 158 - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "J" And "158".White Round J And 158 - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        White Round J And 158 - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "J" And "158".White Round J And 158 - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        White Round Cl 61 - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Cl 61".White Round Cl 61 - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        White Round Dt - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet
                        This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Dt".White Round Dt - Tolterodine Tartrate 2mg Tablet

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                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        Ahmad, R. (2021). The ocular adverse effects of oral drugs. Australian Prescriber.

                        Atan, A., et al. (1999). Tolterodine for overactive bladder: Time to onset of action, preferred dosage, and 9-month follow-up. Techniques in Urology.

                        Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2021). TOLTERODINE TARTRATE- tolterodine tartrate tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        View All References (11)

                        Clemett, D., et al. (2001). Tolterodine: A review of its use in the treatment of overactive bladder. Drugs & Aging.

                        Fernandez, J. (2023). Angioedema. Merck Manual.

                        Harvey, M., et al. (2001). Tolterodine versus oxybutynin in the treatment of urge urinary incontinence: A meta-analysis. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

                        Ghossein, N., et al. (2023). Anticholinergic medications. StatPearls.

                        Gormley, E.A., et al. (2019). Diagnosis and treatment of non-neurogenic overactive bladder (OAB) in adults: AUA/SUFU guideline (2019). The Journal of Urology.

                        Narain, S., et al. (2023). Tolterodine. StatPearls.

                        National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2023). Myasthenia gravis.

                        Richardson, K., et al. (2018). Anticholinergic drugs and risk of dementia: Case-control study. BMJ: British Medical Journal.

                        Sussman, D. O., et al. (2007). Onset of efficacy of tolterodine extended release in patients with overactive bladder. Current Medical Research and Opinion.

                        Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited. (2022). TOLTERODINE TARTRATE- tolterodine capsule, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Wu, A., et al. (2020). A review of systemic medications that may modulate the risk of glaucoma. Eye.

                        GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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