Hi,
Tropan (generic name: oxybutynin) and Trofame (generic name: tolterodine) are both medications used to treat
urinary incontinence, urgency, and frequency in patients with
overactive bladder. However, they belong to different classes of drugs and have some differences in their mechanisms of action and side effects.
Tropan belongs to a class of drugs called anticholinergics, which work by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, a
neurotransmitter that plays a role in bladder muscle contractions. By blocking acetylcholine, Tropan helps to relax the bladder muscles and decrease
urinary urgency and frequency. Tropan can cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation,
blurred vision, dizziness, and confusion, especially in older adults.
Trofame belongs to a class of drugs called antimuscarinics, which work by blocking the effects of acetylcholine on specific receptors in the bladder. By blocking these receptors, Trofame helps to reduce bladder contractions and decrease urinary urgency and frequency. Trofame can also cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and dizziness.
If your father is diagnosed with glaucoma, he should avoid anticholinergic medications like Tropan and Trofame, as they can worsen the condition by increasing
intraocular pressure. In such cases, other medications can be used to treat overactive bladder, such as mirabegron, which works by activating beta-3 receptors in the bladder to relax the
smooth muscle and increase bladder capacity. Your father needs to discuss his medication options with his healthcare provider, taking into account his medical history and any other medications he is taking.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician