Transdermal oxybutynin for overactive bladder.

Overactive bladder is commonly treated with oral anticholinergic drugs such as oxybutynin chloride. Although oral anticholinergic agents have been effective in controlling urinary urgency and frequency and in decreasing incontinence episodes, adverse events, particularly dry mouth, often cause patients to discontinue oral therapy and to endure incontinence. Oxybutynin can be delivered transcutaneously, maintaining the efficacy of oral oxybutynin while significantly minimizing the side effects (eg, dry mouth) that may complicate therapy. By avoiding hepatic and gastrointestinal metabolism of oxybutynin, less N-desethyloxybutynin is produced (this compound is deemed responsible for the anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth). This novel oxybutynin formulation offers patients who have overactive bladder and urge urinary incontinence a well-tolerated option for managing the symptoms of overactive bladder.