Bethanechol

Mechanism :

Bethanechol acts principally by producing the effects of stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system. It increases the tone of the detrusor urinae muscle, usually producing a contraction sufficiently strong to initiate micturition and empty the bladder. It stimulates gastric motility, increases gastric tone, and often restores rhythmic peristalsis.

Indication :

• Acute postoperative urinary retention
• Neurogenic atony of the urinary bladder

Contraindications :

Hypersensitivity to bethanechol or to any component of the injection. Hyperthyroidism, pregnancy, lactation, peptic ulcer, latent or active bronchial asthma, pronounced bradycardia or hypotension, vasomotor instability, coronary artery disease, epilepsy, and parkinsonism. Should not be employed when the strength or integrity of the gastrointestinal or bladder wall is in question, or in the presence of mechanical obstruction; when increased muscular activity of the gastrointestinal tract or urinary bladder might prove harmful, as following recent urinary bladder surgery, gastrointestinal resection and anastomosis, or when there is possible gastrointestinal obstruction; in bladder neck obstruction, spastic gastrointestinal disturbances, acute inflammatory lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, or peritonitis; or in marked vagotonia.

Dosing :

Adverse Effect :

Malaise, abdominal cramps, nausea and belching, diarrhea, salivation, urinary urgency, headache, hypotension, reflex tachycardia, vasomotor response, flushing, sweating, bronchial constriction, lacrimation, miosis

Interaction :

Ganglion Blocking Compounds: Special care is required if this drug is given to patients receiving ganglion blocking compounds because a critical fall in blood pressure may occur. Usually, severe abdominal symptoms appear before there is such a fall in the blood pressure.

Hepatic Dose :