Flavoxate (antimuscarinic, antispasmodic agent)

Flavoxate is an antimuscarinic that works by relaxing smooth muscles, particularly in the bladder.

Uses

What is flavoxate used for?

Flavoxate is commonly used for relieving pain and urgency of urination as well as nighttime urination associated with certain medical conditions.

It may be used in combination with other medicines to treat ulcers. It may also be used for other conditions; ask your doctor for more information.

How should I take flavoxate?

Flavoxate is available in tablet form. Use it as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Flavoxate may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

How do I store flavoxate?

Flavoxate is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer.

There may be different brands of flavoxate that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush it down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using flavoxate?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Allergic to any ingredient in flavoxate.
• Pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement.
• Other underlying conditions or comorbidities.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy

If you become pregnant while taking flavoxate, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using flavoxate during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding:

It is unknown if flavoxate is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breastfeeding while you are using flavoxate, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Side effects

What side effects may be expected after using flavoxate?

Some side effects that can be caused by flavoxate include the following:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Gastric upset
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Blurred vision
• Eye sensitivity
• Decreased urination or difficulty urinating

These are typically mild but if you experience worsening of symptoms or these become unbearable, consult with your doctor.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• Altered mental state (confusion, dizziness, drowsiness)
• Skin rash
• Increased or irregular heart rate
• A sore throat accompanied by fever

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with flavoxate?

Flavoxate may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects.

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Does food or alcohol interact with flavoxate?

This drug generally does not have interaction with food and may be taken with or without meals. Do not take this medication together with alcohol as it may increase CNS depression (drowsiness to loss of consciousness).

Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with flavoxate?

This drug may interact with your current health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

These health conditions are:

• Enlarged prostate or urinary problems
• Glaucoma
• Stomach bleeding
• Difficulty swallowing due to esophagus problems
• Urinary blockage
• A bowel obstruction
• Rectal bleeding

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using flavoxate.

What is the dose for an adult?

Treatment of bladder spasms due to catheterization, dysuria, urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency

The recommended dose is 100-200 mg tablets taken 3-4 times a day. If symptoms improve the dose may be reduced.

What is the dose for a child?

For children 12 years and older: the same as the adult dose.

The recommended dose for children under 12 years has not been established. Do not give this medication to a child unless prescribed by a physician.

How is flavoxate available?

Flavoxate is available in the following brands, dosage forms, and strengths:

• Urispas* tablet 100 mg, 200 mg
• Generic flavoxate HCl tablets 100 mg

*Brand may not be available locally.

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of flavoxate, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.