Bethanechol Chloride
What is BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
(BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE) This medication is used to treat certain bladder problems such as the inability to urinate or empty the bladder completely due to certain causes (such as surgery, bladder muscle problems). It works by helping the bladder muscle to squeeze better, thereby improving your ability to urinate.
How should I use BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times daily. Taking this medication on an empty stomach will help reduce nausea/vomiting. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
Before taking bethanechol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: recent stomach/intestinal/bladder surgery, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcers, blockage, spasms), peritonitis, blockage of the bladder, a certain nerve problem (vagotonia), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), lung disease (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), heart problems (such as coronary artery disease, slow heartbeat), seizures, Parkinson's disease, blood pressure problems. This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
What may interact with BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as amylase/lipase levels), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
What if I miss a dose of BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What side effects may I notice from receiving BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
Dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/pain, diarrhea, increased saliva/urination, sweating, flushing, watery eyes, or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, fast heartbeat, severe abdominal pain. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Where should I keep BETHANECHOL CHLORIDE?
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.