DARIFENACIN
In this session, we will be discussing the consumer medication information for darifenacin, trade name EnablexTM.
What it’s for & How to take
Darifenacin is used to treat the symptoms of overactive bladder. This medication helps relax the muscles in the bladder, so they do not squeeze too quickly.
Darifenacin will help relax the bladder so that it may fill to a normal level before you feel the urge to urinate. Relaxing the bladder muscles will decrease the feeling that you need to frequently urinate and may decrease bladder leakage.
Darifenacin is usually taken once daily, with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. Swallow this tablet whole, with a full glass of water. Take this medication at the same time each day.
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip it and continue with your normal dose time. Do not take a double dose to make up the missed dose.
Your dosage is based on your condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may have you stop the medication for a period of time to see if you need to continue taking it. If the feeling of frequent urination does not improve or gets worse, notify your doctor.
Warnings & Cautions
- Darifenacin should not be used if you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, slow or blocked gastrointestinal system, or urinary retention problems. If you have any of these conditions, do not take this medication until you have discussed this with your doctor.
- This medication may make you dizzy, drowsy, or blur your vision. Do not drive or do any activity that requires focus and attention until you are sure you can do them safely. Limit alcoholic beverages while taking darifenacin.
- While taking darifenacin, your body does not sweat as much. In hot temperatures, the body may have a difficult time cooling itself. This may lead to heat stroke. Help prevent heat stroke while taking this medication. Avoid exercise in hot weather, saunas, or anything else which may increase your body temperature. Drink plenty of water.
- The elderly may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication, especially the dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, and constipation.
- Let your pharmacist or doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking this medication.
Interactions & Side Effects
- Tell your pharmacist or doctor all your medication allergies so they may determine if darifenacin is safe for you to take.
- Avoid dangerous drug interactions. Tell your pharmacist or doctor all the other medication you are taking, including over the counter supplements, even if you don’t take them very often.
- Ask your doctor if this medication is safe to take with your current health conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any previous bladder or intestinal problems, liver or kidney disease, any heart or blood pressure issues, or any history of neurologic problems.
- Interactions & Side Effects Cont.
- While taking darifenacin, you may notice some blurred vision, dry mouth, dry eyes, drowsiness, constipation, and possibly a headache. If these or any other unwanted side effects persist, contact your doctor or pharmacist to talk about it with them.
- Call your doctor right away if you feel any burning or painful urination, fast pounding heartbeat, hallucinations, swelling in your mouth or throat, or persistent vision problems.
If you have any questions about what you have heard, contact your pharmacist or doctor. This session does not include all the potential interactions or side effects that this medication may cause. Ask your pharmacist how your medication should be stored and how you should dispose of it when you are done taking it. Do not share your medication with anyone, ever. Remember, this is not meant to replace your counseling session with your pharmacist. In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
Updated 7/20