Bethanechol Chloride
Bethanechol Chloride is a cholinergic medication that stimulates muscarinic receptors to increase smooth muscle activity in the bladder and gastrointestinal tract. It is primarily used to treat urinary retention and GI atony when non-invasive measures are insufficient.
Bethanechol Chloride is a muscarinic agonist used to stimulate bladder contraction for urinary retention and improve GI motility.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 47088
- Generic
- Bethanechol Chloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of non-obstructive urinary retention (post-operative, neurogenic bladder), post-partum urinary retention, and gastrointestinal atony or distension. May be used when other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Acts as a muscarinic receptor agonist, directly stimulating cholinergic receptors on smooth muscle. This increases detrusor muscle contraction in the bladder and enhances GI peristalsis and tone.
Contraindicated in mechanical obstructions, active inflammatory conditions of the GI/GU tracts, recent surgical anastomoses, or when increased muscle activity is harmful. May cause cholinergic side effects including bradycardia, hypotension, salivation, and bronchospasm. Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or cardiac conditions.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy