Bethanechol chloride is the active ingredient in medications containing bethanechol.It is a synthetic compound that mimics the action of acetylcholine, a natural neurotransmitter in the body.
Bethanechol is primarily used to treat urinary retention, a condition where the bladder is unable to empty completely.
It is also used to stimulate gastric emptying in patients with gastroparesis, a condition characterized by delayed stomach emptying.
Bethanechol Chloride 25mg Tablets (Bethanechol) works by stimulating the muscles of the bladder and stomach. It binds to muscarinic receptors in these organs, mimicking the effects of acetylcholine, which leads to increased muscle contractions and improved bladder emptying or gastric emptying.
Bethanechol medications should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
The dosage of bethanechol is determined by your doctor based on your individual needs and medical condition.
It is typically taken orally, but it can also be administered through injection.
The specific dosage and frequency will be prescribed by your doctor.
More serious side effects can occur, such as: difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and seizures.
Common side effects of bethanechol include: headache, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dizziness, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and increased salivation.
Avoid alcohol consumption while taking bethanechol, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Bethanechol can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how bethanechol affects you.
Bethanechol is not recommended for pregnant women as it can potentially harm the fetus. It's also not recommended for breastfeeding mothers as it can pass into breast milk.
Bethanechol is not generally used in children.
Caution should be exercised in patients with kidney disease, as bethanechol can accumulate in the body and increase the risk of side effects.
Bethanechol is not typically metabolized by the liver, so it is not expected to cause significant problems in patients with liver disease.
Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/bethanechol-chloride.html
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-retention/symptoms-causes/syc-20354453
National Institutes of Health: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569680/
