Overdosage with oxybutynin has been associated with anticholinergic effects including central nervous system excitation, flushing, fever, dehydration, cardiac arrhythmia, vomiting, and urinary retention. Oral ingestion of 100 mg oxybutynin chloride in association with alcohol has been reported in a 13-year-old boy who experienced memory loss, and in a 34year-old woman who developed stupor, followed by disorientation and agitation on awakening, dilated pupils, dry skin, cardiac arrhythmia, and retention of urine. Both patients recovered fully with symptomatic treatment.
Plasma concentrations of oxybutynin begin to decline 24 hours after GELNIQUE application. If overexposure occurs, monitor patients until symptoms resolve.
The use of GELNIQUE is contraindicated in the following conditions:
Known serious hypersensitivity reaction to GELNIQUE, oxybutynin, or to any of the components of GELNIQUE
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trial of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Clinical Trials ExperienceThe safety of GELNIQUE was evaluated in 789 patients (389 randomized to GELNIQUE 1 g and 400 randomized to placebo) during a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, 12week clinical efficacy and safety study. A subset of these 789 patients (N = 216) participated in the 14-week open-label safety extension that followed the placebo-controlled study. Of 216 patients in the safety extension, 107 were randomized to placebo gel during the double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week study. In the combined double-blind, placebo-controlled study and the open-label safety extension, a total of 496 patients were exposed to at least one dose of GELNIQUE. Four hundred thirty-one (431) patients received at least 12 weeks of GELNIQUE treatment and 85 patients received 26 weeks of GELNIQUE treatment. The study population primarily consisted of Caucasian women (approximately 90%) with an average age of 59 years who had overactive bladder with urge urinary incontinence.
Table 1 lists adverse reactions that were reported in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week study in greater than 2% of patients treated with GELNIQUE and at an incidence greater than placebo.
Table 1: Common Adverse Reactions in the Randomized,
Double-blind, Placebo-controlled 12-Week Study (> 2% and > placebo)
Adverse Reaction | GELNIQUE 1 gram N = 389 n (%) |
Placebo N = 400 n (%) |
Dry mouth | 29 (7.5) | 11 (2.8) |
Urinary tract infection | 27 (6.9) | 17 (4.3) |
Application site reactions* | 21 (5.4) | 4 (1.0) |
Upper respiratory tract infection | 21 (5.4) | 20 (5.0) |
Dizziness | 11 (2.8) | 4 (1.0) |
Nasopharyngitis | 11 (2.8) | 9 (2.3) |
Fatigue | 8 (2.1) | 4 (1.0) |
Gastroenteritis viral | 8 (2.1) | 7 (1.8) |
* Includes application site pruritus, dermatitis, papules, anesthesia, erythema, irritation, pain and papules |
Other common adverse reactions that were reported in ≥ 1% of GELNIQUE-treated patients were headache (1.5%), constipation (1.3%), and pruritus (1.3%). Application site pruritus (2.1%) and application site dermatitis (1.8%) were the most commonly reported application site reactions. A majority of adverse reactions were described as mild or moderate in intensity, except for two patients reporting severe headache.
The most common adverse reaction leading to drug discontinuation was application site reaction (0.8% with GELNIQUE versus 0.3% with placebo).
The most common adverse reactions reported during the 14-week open-label extension study were application site reactions (6.0%) and dry mouth (1.9%). The most common reason for premature discontinuation was application site reactions (9 patients or 4.2%). Two of these 9 patients experienced application site reactions of severe intensity (dermatitis, urticaria, and erythema).
Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of GELNIQUE. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Nervous System Disorders: Memory impairment, dizziness, somnolence, confusion
Psychiatric Disorders: Delirium, hallucinations
GELNIQUE is a muscarinic antagonist indicated for the treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency and frequency.
Oxybutynin is transported across intact skin and into the systemic circulation by passive diffusion across the stratum corneum. Steady-state concentrations are achieved within 7 days of continuous dosing. Absorption of oxybutynin is similar when GELNIQUE is applied to the abdomen, upper arm/shoulders or thighs. Mean plasma concentrations during a randomized, crossover study of the three recommended application sites in 39 healthy men and women are shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Mean (±SD) plasma oxybutynin
concentrations during steady-state application of GELNIQUE to the abdomen,
upper arm/shoulder and thigh (N=39).
Average steady-state plasma oxybutynin concentrations were 4.7, 5.2, and 5.5 ng/mL for the abdomen, upper arm/shoulder and thigh application sites, respectively (Table 2).
Table 2: Mean (SD) steady-state pharmacokinetic
parameters for oxybutynin following GELNIQUE application to the abdomen, upper
arm/shoulder and thigh (N = 39).
Application Site | AUC0-24 (ng•hr/mL) | Cmax (ng/mL) | Cavg (ng/mL) |
Abdomen | 112.7 (58.00) | 6.8 (3.93) | 4.7 (2.39) |
Upper Arm/Shoulder | 133.8 (81.58) | 8.3 (5.97) | 5.5 (3.37) |
Thigh | 125.1 (84.67) | 7.0 (4.95) | 5.2 (3.50) |
Oxybutynin is widely distributed in body tissues following systemic absorption. The volume of distribution was estimated to be 193 L after intravenous administration of 5 mg oxybutynin chloride.
MetabolismOxybutynin is metabolized primarily by the cytochrome P450 enzyme systems, particularly CYP3A4, found mostly in the liver and gut wall. Metabolites include phenylcyclohexylglycolic acid, which is pharmacologically inactive, and Ndesethyloxybutynin (DEO), which is pharmacologically active.
Transdermal administration of oxybutynin bypasses the first-pass gastrointestinal and hepatic metabolism, reducing the formation of the N-desethyloxybutynin metabolite. Only small amounts of CYP3A4 are found in skin, limiting pre-systemic metabolism during transdermal absorption. The AUC ratio of N-desethyloxybutynin metabolite to parent compound following multiple transdermal applications is approximately 1:1 for GELNIQUE.
Following intravenous administration, the elimination half-life of oxybutynin is approximately 2 hours. After the final steady-state dose of GELNIQUE, oxybutynin and Ndesethyloxybutynin demonstrated biphasic elimination with plasma concentrations beginning to decrease 24 hours after dosing. Elimination was more rapid between 24 and 48 hours after dosing, during which time plasma concentrations of oxybutynin and N-desethyloxybutynin declined by about one-half. This rapid elimination phase was followed by a more prolonged terminal elimination phase. The apparent elimination half-lives including the terminal elimination phase were 64 hours and 82 hours for oxybutynin and DEO, respectively.
ExcretionOxybutynin is extensively metabolized by the liver, with less than 0.1% of the administered dose excreted unchanged in the urine. Less than 0.1% of the administered dose is excreted as the metabolite N-desethyloxybutynin.
Person-To-Person TransferenceThe potential for dermal transfer of oxybutynin from a treated person to an untreated person was evaluated in a single-dose study where subjects dosed with GELNIQUE engaged in vigorous contact with an untreated partner for 15 minutes, either with (N = 14 couples) or without (N = 12 couples) clothing covering the application area. The untreated partners not protected by clothing demonstrated detectable plasma concentrations of oxybutynin (mean Cmax = 0.94 ng/mL). Two of the 14 untreated subjects participating in the clothing-to-skin contact regimen had measurable oxybutynin plasma concentrations (Cmax ≤ 0.1 ng/mL) during the 48 hours following contact with treated subjects; oxybutynin was not detectable with the remaining 12 untreated subjects.
Use Of SunscreenThe effect of sunscreen on the absorption of oxybutynin when applied 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after GELNIQUE application was evaluated in a single-dose randomized crossover study (N = 16). Concomitant application of sunscreen, either before or after GELNIQUE application, had no effect on the systemic exposure of oxybutynin.
ShoweringThe effect of showering on the absorption of oxybutynin was evaluated in a randomized, steady-state crossover study under conditions of no shower, or showering 1, 2 or 6 hours after GELNIQUE application (N = 20). The results of the study indicate that showering after one hour does not affect the overall systemic exposure to oxybutynin.
RaceThe effect of race on the pharmacokinetics of GELNIQUE has not been studied.
There are no studies with topical or oral oxybutynin use in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks of adverse development outcomes. No adverse developmental outcomes were observed in animal reproduction studies when oxybutynin chloride was administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at approximately 50 and 1 times, respectively, the maximum human dose based on body surface area (see Data).
In the general U.S. population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20% respectively.
DataAnimal Data
Subcutaneous administration of oxybutynin chloride to rats at doses up to 25 mg/kg (approximately 50 times the human exposure based on body surface area) and to rabbits at doses up to 0.4 mg/kg (approximately 1 times the human exposure based on body surface area) throughout the period of organogenesis revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus.
Gel: 10%
Storage And HandlingMetered-Dose Pump: Metered-dose pump dispenser capable of delivering 30 metered 1 gram doses.
Carton of 1 metered-dose Pump (NDC 0023-5812-30)
Unit Dose: Heat-sealed sachet containing 1 gram (1.14 mL) of GELNIQUE gel for topical use.
Carton of 30 Sachets (NDC 0023-5812-11)
StorageStore at 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect from moisture and humidity. Apply immediately after the sachets are opened and contents expelled or dose delivered from dispenser. Discard used sachets and empty dispensers in household trash in a manner that prevents accidental application or ingestion by children, pets, or others.
Keep out of reach of children.
Distributed By: Allergan USA, Inc. Irvine, CA 92612. Revised: Oct 2017
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
PRECAUTIONS Urinary RetentionAdminister GELNIQUE with caution in patients with clinically significant bladder outflow obstruction because of the risk of urinary retention.
Use In Patients With Gastrointestinal DisordersAdminister GELNIQUE with caution to patients with gastrointestinal obstructive disorders because of the risk of gastric retention.
GELNIQUE, like other anticholinergic drugs, may decrease gastrointestinal motility and should be used with caution in patients with conditions such as ulcerative colitis or intestinal atony. GELNIQUE should be used with caution in patients who have gastroesophageal reflux and/or who are concurrently taking drugs (such as bisphosphonates) that can cause or exacerbate esophagitis.
AngioedemaAngioedema requiring hospitalization and emergency medical treatment has occurred with the first or subsequent doses of oral oxybutynin. In the event of angioedema, oxybutynincontaining product should be discontinued and appropriate therapy promptly provided.
Skin HypersensitivityIn a controlled clinical trial of skin sensitization, 1 of 200 patients (0.5%) demonstrated skin hypersensitivity to GELNIQUE. Patients who develop skin hypersensitivity to GELNIQUE should discontinue drug treatment.
Central Nervous System EffectsGELNIQUE is associated with anticholinergic central nervous system (CNS) effects. A variety of CNS anticholinergic effects have been reported, including headache, dizziness, somnolence, confusion and hallucinations. Patients should be monitored for signs of anticholinergic CNS effects, particularly after beginning treatment. Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until they know how GELNIQUE affects them. If a patient experiences anticholinergic CNS effects, drug discontinuation should be considered.
Skin TransferenceTransfer of oxybutynin to another person can occur when vigorous skin-to-skin contact is made with the application site. To minimize the potential transfer of oxybutynin from GELNIQUE-treated skin to another person, patients should cover the application site with clothing after the gel has dried if direct skin-to-skin contact at the application site is anticipated . Patients should wash their hands immediately after application of GELNIQUE.
Flammable GelGELNIQUE is an alcohol-based gel and is therefore flammable. Avoid open fire or smoking until gel has dried.
Exacerbation Of Symptoms Of Myasthenia GravisAvoid use of GELNIQUE in patients with myasthenia gravis, a disease characterized by decreased cholinergic activity at the neuromuscular junction. If experiencing exacerbation of symptoms of myasthenia gravis, oxybutynin-containing product should be discontinued and appropriate therapy promptly provided.
Patient Counseling InformationSee FDA-approved Patient Labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION)
Instructions For UseGELNIQUE is for topical application only and should not be ingested.
GELNIQUE should not be applied to recently shaved skin surfaces. Patients should wash hands immediately after product application. Application sites should not be subject to showering or water immersion for 1 hour after product application. Application sites should be covered with clothing if close skin-to-skin contact at the application site is anticipated.
Alcohol based gels are flammable. Avoid open fire or smoking until the gel has dried.
Important Anticholinergic Adverse ReactionsPatients should be informed that anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) agents, such as GELNIQUE, may produce clinically significant adverse reactions related to anticholinergic pharmacological activity including:
A 24-month study in rats at dosages of oxybutynin chloride of 20, 80 and 160 mg/kg showed no evidence of carcinogenicity. These doses are approximately 6, 25 and 50 times the maximum exposure in humans taking an oral dose, based on body surface area. Oxybutynin chloride showed no increase of mutagenic activity when tested in Schizosaccharomyces pompholiciformis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Salmonella typhimurium test systems. Reproduction studies with oxybutynin chloride in the mouse, rat, hamster, and rabbit showed no definite evidence of impaired fertility.
Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Risk SummaryThere are no studies with topical or oral oxybutynin use in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks of adverse development outcomes. No adverse developmental outcomes were observed in animal reproduction studies when oxybutynin chloride was administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at approximately 50 and 1 times, respectively, the maximum human dose based on body surface area (see Data).
In the general U.S. population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20% respectively.
DataAnimal Data
Subcutaneous administration of oxybutynin chloride to rats at doses up to 25 mg/kg (approximately 50 times the human exposure based on body surface area) and to rabbits at doses up to 0.4 mg/kg (approximately 1 times the human exposure based on body surface area) throughout the period of organogenesis revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus.
Lactation Risk SummaryThere is no information on the presence of oxybutynin or its metabolites in human milk, its effects on milk production or on the breastfed child. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for GELNIQUE and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from GELNIQUE or from the underlying maternal condition.
Pediatric UseThe safety and effectiveness of GELNIQUE® 10% have not been established in pediatric patients.
Geriatric UseOf the 496 patients exposed to GELNIQUE in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week study and the 14-week safety extension study, 188 patients (38%) were 65 years of age and older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
The contents of one sachet or one actuation of the metered-dose pump of GELNIQUE should be applied once daily to dry, intact skin on the abdomen, upper arms/shoulders, or thighs. Application sites should be rotated. Application of GELNIQUE should not be made to the same site on consecutive days.
GELNIQUE is for topical application only and should not be ingested.
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trial of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Clinical Trials ExperienceThe safety of GELNIQUE was evaluated in 789 patients (389 randomized to GELNIQUE 1 g and 400 randomized to placebo) during a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, 12week clinical efficacy and safety study. A subset of these 789 patients (N = 216) participated in the 14-week open-label safety extension that followed the placebo-controlled study. Of 216 patients in the safety extension, 107 were randomized to placebo gel during the double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week study. In the combined double-blind, placebo-controlled study and the open-label safety extension, a total of 496 patients were exposed to at least one dose of GELNIQUE. Four hundred thirty-one (431) patients received at least 12 weeks of GELNIQUE treatment and 85 patients received 26 weeks of GELNIQUE treatment. The study population primarily consisted of Caucasian women (approximately 90%) with an average age of 59 years who had overactive bladder with urge urinary incontinence.
Table 1 lists adverse reactions that were reported in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 12-week study in greater than 2% of patients treated with GELNIQUE and at an incidence greater than placebo.
Table 1: Common Adverse Reactions in the Randomized,
Double-blind, Placebo-controlled 12-Week Study (> 2% and > placebo)
Adverse Reaction | GELNIQUE 1 gram N = 389 n (%) |
Placebo N = 400 n (%) |
Dry mouth | 29 (7.5) | 11 (2.8) |
Urinary tract infection | 27 (6.9) | 17 (4.3) |
Application site reactions* | 21 (5.4) | 4 (1.0) |
Upper respiratory tract infection | 21 (5.4) | 20 (5.0) |
Dizziness | 11 (2.8) | 4 (1.0) |
Nasopharyngitis | 11 (2.8) | 9 (2.3) |
Fatigue | 8 (2.1) | 4 (1.0) |
Gastroenteritis viral | 8 (2.1) | 7 (1.8) |
* Includes application site pruritus, dermatitis, papules, anesthesia, erythema, irritation, pain and papules |
Other common adverse reactions that were reported in ≥ 1% of GELNIQUE-treated patients were headache (1.5%), constipation (1.3%), and pruritus (1.3%). Application site pruritus (2.1%) and application site dermatitis (1.8%) were the most commonly reported application site reactions. A majority of adverse reactions were described as mild or moderate in intensity, except for two patients reporting severe headache.
The most common adverse reaction leading to drug discontinuation was application site reaction (0.8% with GELNIQUE versus 0.3% with placebo).
The most common adverse reactions reported during the 14-week open-label extension study were application site reactions (6.0%) and dry mouth (1.9%). The most common reason for premature discontinuation was application site reactions (9 patients or 4.2%). Two of these 9 patients experienced application site reactions of severe intensity (dermatitis, urticaria, and erythema).
Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of GELNIQUE. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Nervous System Disorders: Memory impairment, dizziness, somnolence, confusion
Psychiatric Disorders: Delirium, hallucinations
DRUG INTERACTIONSNo specific drug-drug interaction studies have been performed with GELNIQUE.
Other AnticholinergicsThe concomitant use of GELNIQUE with other anticholinergic (antimuscarinic) agents may increase the frequency and/or severity of dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, somnolence and other anticholinergic pharmacological effects.
Cytochrome P450 InhibitorsPharmacokinetic studies have not been performed with patients concomitantly receiving cytochrome P450 enzyme inhibitors, such as antimycotic agents (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, and miconazole) or macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin and clarithromycin).