Ditropan, Oxytrol, Levsin, Urispas, Urised

Bladder spasms are one of the most painful and difficult to describe symptoms that some patients struggle with. Spasms often occur at the very end of urination, as the bladder spasms and squeezes so powerfully that the patient can literally scream. Some patients describe the spasm as shooting up their spine, making their whole body shudder. It’s not unusual for these patients dread urination out of fear of these spasm that can occur.

The good news is that there are several medications that can calm and reduce spasms. The popular prescription favorites are Ditropan and Detrol. Oxytrol is a new over-the-counter version of oxybutynin now available in the USA. Levsin and levsinex may also be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, a condition which occasionally accompanies IC and involves spasms of the colon.

Common side effects include dry mouth and drowsiness. Antispasmodics listed above are similar in terms of how the main ingredient helps IC, but they differ in terms of added ingredients and preservatives used. Some people may find they respond differently to each of the various brands.