Urispas (generic name: flavoxate hydrochloride) is a prescription antispasmodic medication specifically formulated to relieve symptoms associated with various urological conditions. It works by relaxing the smooth muscle of the urinary tract, thereby reducing bladder spasms, urgency, frequency, dysuria, and suprapubic pain. This medication is indicated for the symptomatic relief of conditions such as cystitis, prostatitis, urethritis, and urethrocystitis/urethrotrigonitis. By targeting the underlying muscular hyperactivity, Urispas provides focused relief, improving comfort and daily functioning for patients experiencing disruptive urinary symptoms. Proper diagnosis and supervision by a healthcare provider are essential to ensure appropriate use.

Features

• Active ingredient: Flavoxate hydrochloride
• Available in 100 mg oral tablet formulation
• Antispasmodic with direct action on smooth muscle
• Musculotropic effect without anticholinergic properties
• Rapid onset of action with symptomatic relief
• Well-established safety profile with decades of clinical use

Benefits

• Effectively reduces painful bladder spasms and associated discomfort
• Decreases urinary urgency and frequency, allowing for better daily planning
• Alleviates dysuria (painful urination) and suprapubic pain
• Improves overall quality of life by restoring normal urinary function
• Provides targeted action with minimal systemic anticholinergic effects
• Enables better sleep by reducing nocturia episodes

Common use

Urispas is commonly prescribed for the symptomatic management of various urological conditions characterized by bladder hyperactivity. These include cystitis (both infectious and interstitial), prostatitis, urethritis, and urethrocystitis/urethrotrigonitis. It is particularly useful in patients experiencing urinary urgency, frequency, nocturia, dysuria, and suprapubic pain resulting from detrusor muscle overactivity. The medication is often used as adjunctive therapy alongside antimicrobial treatment for infectious conditions or as standalone symptomatic relief for non-infectious bladder disorders.

Dosage and direction

The recommended adult dosage is one 100 mg tablet taken three to four times daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water and may be taken with or without food, though consistent administration with meals may help minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment. Treatment duration should be determined by the prescribing physician based on symptom resolution and underlying condition. Do not crush or chew tablets.

Precautions

Patients should exercise caution when operating machinery or driving until their response to Urispas is known, as dizziness or drowsiness may occur. Those with glaucoma should use this medication with caution and under close medical supervision. Hepatic function should be monitored during prolonged therapy. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to adverse effects and may require dosage adjustment. Pregnancy category B: use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for nursing mothers.

Contraindications

Urispas is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to flavoxate hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, intestinal atony, megacolon, paralytic ileus, or severe ulcerative colitis. Contraindicated in patients with obstructive uropathy, urinary retention, or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma. Not recommended for children under 12 years of age due to insufficient safety data.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and nervousness. Less frequently reported effects include confusion (particularly in elderly patients), tachycardia, palpitations, increased intraocular pressure, skin rash, urticaria, and eosinophilia. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy. Patients should report any persistent or severe adverse effects to their healthcare provider.

Drug interaction

Urispas may potentiate the effects of other drugs with anticholinergic properties, including tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, phenothiazines, and anti-Parkinsonian drugs. Concurrent use with CNS depressants (alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers) may enhance sedative effects. Absorption may be affected by antacids or antidiarrheal medications. Monitor patients taking MAO inhibitors concurrently due to potential additive effects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining consistent blood levels is important for optimal symptom control, so patients should strive for regular dosing intervals.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe anticholinergic effects: extreme drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, tachycardia, and respiratory depression. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion was recent. Activated charcoal may be administered. Monitor vital signs and provide appropriate symptomatic care.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in a dry place protected from light and moisture. Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Do not store in bathroom cabinets where moisture levels may fluctuate. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Properly discard any expired or unused medication according to local guidelines or through medication take-back programs.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Urispas is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, administration, and duration of treatment. Do not discontinue or change dosage without medical consultation.

Reviews

Clinical studies and patient reports consistently demonstrate Urispas’s effectiveness in managing bladder spasm symptoms. In controlled trials, approximately 70-80% of patients experienced significant improvement in urinary urgency, frequency, and dysuria within the first week of treatment. Many urologists note its particular value in providing rapid symptomatic relief while awaiting culture results or as adjunctive therapy. Patients frequently report improved sleep quality and reduced interruption of daily activities. The medication is generally well-tolerated, with most adverse effects being mild and transient. Long-term users appreciate the consistent symptom control without development of tolerance.