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Bethanechol: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Safety Guide
Summary or Key Points
Bethanechol is a medication used to treat conditions such as urinary retention, neurogenic bladder, and other issues affecting bladder and gastrointestinal function. It works by stimulating muscles in these areas to improve their activity. Bethanechol is available in tablet form and is typically taken orally. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for personalized care.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Urecholine (Bethanechol)
The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. The generic name is listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Cholinergic Agonists
Parasympathomimetics
Bethanechol Dosage
Bethanechol is prescribed for various conditions related to bladder and gastrointestinal function. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and never adjust your dose without consulting them first. If you need guidance, schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers.
Bethanechol for Urinary Retention
Adult Dose: 10-50 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and your response to the medication.
Neurogenic Bladder
Adult Dose: 10-50 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The length of treatment will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your condition.
Postoperative Ileus
Adult Dose: 10-25 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. Treatment typically continues until normal bowel function is restored.
Gastroparesis
Adult Dose: 10-25 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The duration of treatment depends on your symptoms and how well you respond to the medication.
Bladder Atony
Adult Dose: 10-50 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The length of treatment will vary based on your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Urinary Incontinence
Adult Dose: 10-50 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration of treatment.
Constipation
Adult Dose: 10-25 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The length of treatment will depend on your response to the medication.
Esophageal Reflux
Adult Dose: 10-25 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The duration of treatment will be guided by your healthcare provider.
Myasthenia Gravis
Adult Dose: 10-50 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. Your doctor will determine the length of treatment based on your condition.
Dry Mouth
Adult Dose: 10-25 mg taken orally 3-4 times daily. The duration of treatment will depend on your symptoms and how well you respond to the medication.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg
How to Take Bethanechol Safely
Bethanechol should be taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, to reduce the risk of nausea. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for use.
Bethanechol Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like all medications, Bethanechol can cause side effects. Some are more common, while others are rare but more serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers if you have concerns.
Common Bethanechol Side Effects: These may include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and tend to resolve on their own.
Less Common Side Effects: Dizziness, flushing, sweating, or a drop in blood pressure. If these occur, contact your healthcare provider.
Serious Side Effects: Difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Contraindications for Bethanechol
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. It’s important to know if you have any conditions that make taking Bethanechol unsafe.
Here are the contraindications for taking Bethanechol:
Asthma: Bethanechol can cause bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways), which can worsen asthma symptoms and lead to difficulty breathing.
Bradycardia (slow heart rate): Bethanechol can further slow down the heart rate, which may be dangerous for patients with bradycardia.
Hyperthyroidism: In people with an overactive thyroid, Bethanechol may increase the risk of a rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or irregular heartbeats.
Peptic ulcer disease: Bethanechol increases stomach acid production, which can worsen ulcers and lead to complications like bleeding.
Bladder obstruction: If you have a blockage in your urinary tract, Bethanechol could increase pressure in the bladder, leading to potential injury or worsening of the blockage.
Epilepsy: Bethanechol may lower the seizure threshold, making seizures more likely in people with epilepsy.
Parkinson’s disease: Bethanechol can worsen symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as muscle stiffness and tremors.
If you have any of these conditions, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting Bethanechol. You can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to review your medical history and determine if Bethanechol is right for you.
Drug to Drug Interactions with Bethanechol
Certain medications can interact with Bethanechol, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
Here are some medications that may interact with Bethanechol:
- Atropine (Atropen): Atropine can counteract Bethanechol’s effects, reducing its efficacy.
- Quinidine (Quinidex): Quinidine may decrease Bethanechol’s effectiveness by inhibiting its action on the nervous system.
- Procainamide (Procanbid): Similar to Quinidine, Procainamide can interfere with Bethanechol’s action.
- Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., Donepezil, Aricept): These medications, often used for Alzheimer’s disease, may enhance Bethanechol’s effects, potentially leading to overstimulation of the nervous system.
If you are taking any of these medications, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment plan. You can discuss potential Bethanechol interactions with other medications with one of our telemedicine providers.
Bethanechol in Pregnancy: Is It Safe?
Is it safe to take Bethanechol during pregnancy? The safety of Bethanechol during pregnancy has not been well-studied. It is classified as a Category C drug by the FDA, meaning animal studies have shown some risk to the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies in humans. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and risks of taking Bethanechol with your healthcare provider. We recommend scheduling a telemedicine consultation to discuss your options.
Can You Take Bethanechol While Breastfeeding?
Is it safe to take Bethanechol while breastfeeding? Limited information is available regarding the safety of Bethanechol during breastfeeding. It is unclear whether Bethanechol passes into breast milk or if it could affect a nursing infant. If you are breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before starting Bethanechol. You can also explore safer alternatives with one of our telemedicine providers if necessary.
Estimated Cost of Bethanechol Medication
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Bethanechol without insurance ranges from $20 to $40 when using a GoodRx coupon. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Be sure to check GoodRx or other discount programs to find the best price for your prescription.
Possible Alternatives to Bethanechol
If Bethanechol is not suitable for you, alternative treatments and lifestyle changes may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can discuss these alternatives with one of our telemedicine providers.
- Urinary retention: Alternatives include catheterization, alpha-blockers (e.g., Tamsulosin), or lifestyle changes like timed voiding.
- Neurogenic bladder: Treatment options include anticholinergic medications (e.g., Oxybutynin), intermittent catheterization, or bladder training exercises.
- Postoperative ileus: Alternatives include early mobilization after surgery, chewing gum, or medications like Alvimopan.
- Gastroparesis: Dietary changes (e.g., smaller, more frequent meals), prokinetic agents (e.g., Metoclopramide), or gastric electrical stimulation may be considered.
- Bladder atony: Catheterization or medications like alpha-adrenergic blockers may be used as alternatives.
- Urinary incontinence: Pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, or medications such as Tolterodine (Detrol) may help.
- Constipation: Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and using stool softeners or laxatives may be effective alternatives.
- Esophageal reflux: Lifestyle changes like avoiding trigger foods, elevating the head of the bed, or using proton pump inhibitors (e.g., Omeprazole) may be recommended.
- Myasthenia gravis: Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., Pyridostigmine) or immunosuppressive therapy may be used as alternatives.
- Dry mouth: Alternatives include artificial saliva products, sugar-free gum, or medications like Pilocarpine.
Recent Updates on Bethanechol Research
Recent research on Bethanechol has explored its potential use in treating conditions like gastroparesis and neurogenic bladder. Some studies suggest Bethanechol may improve gastric motility in patients with gastroparesis, though more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Additionally, ongoing studies are investigating the use of Bethanechol in combination with other medications to enhance its therapeutic effects while minimizing side effects.
As research continues, staying informed about the latest findings is essential. If you have questions about how new research might impact your treatment plan, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss the latest updates.
