From the FDA Drug Label
Oxybutynin chloride is contraindicated in patients with urinary retention, gastric retention and other severe decreased gastrointestinal motility conditions, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma and in patients who are at risk for these conditions. Oxybutynin chloride should be administered with caution to patients with clinically significant bladder outflow obstruction because of the risk of urinary retention (see CONTRAINDICATIONS)
Oxybutynin is not effective for treating urinary retention. In fact, it is contraindicated in patients with urinary retention due to the risk of worsening the condition. 1 1
From the Research
Oxybutynin is not effective for treating urinary retention and should be avoided in this condition. Oxybutynin is an antimuscarinic medication that relaxes the detrusor muscle of the bladder, which actually worsens urinary retention by decreasing bladder contractility 2. This medication is indicated for overactive bladder and urinary incontinence, conditions characterized by excessive bladder contractions. For urinary retention, treatments typically include:
- Addressing the underlying cause (such as prostate enlargement, medication side effects, or neurological conditions)
- Catheterization for immediate relief
- Medications that improve bladder emptying like alpha-blockers (tamsulosin, alfuzosin) for men with prostatic obstruction In some cases, bethanechol, a cholinergic medication that increases bladder contractility, may be considered, though evidence for its efficacy is limited 3. Patients experiencing urinary retention should seek prompt medical attention as prolonged retention can lead to bladder damage, urinary tract infections, or kidney problems. The use of oxybutynin in urinary retention is not supported by recent studies, and its use may be harmful due to its antimuscarinic effects, which can worsen the condition 4, 5, 6.