Bethanechol is a muscarinic agonist used to treat postoperative and postpartum nonobstructive functional urinary retention and neurogenic atony of the bladder with retention. It can be found under the brand name Duvoid. Bethanechol is a synthetic ester that was initially synthesized in 1935. As a cholinergic agent, bethanechol is similar in structure and pharmacological function to acetylcholine and is used in specific cases when stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system is necessary. For example, bethanechol is readily used to treat postoperative or postpartum urinary retention. An advantage of bethanechol is that in contrast to acetylcholine, bethanechol is not degraded by cholinesterase allowing its effects to be longer-lasting. When taken orally or administered by injection, Bethanechol binds to and activates these muscarinic receptors. By doing so, it mimics the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that naturally activates these receptors. The activation of M2 and M3 receptors leads to several physiological responses, including increased smooth muscle tone and contraction. Bethanechol is commonly used to stimulate bladder contractions in individuals with urinary retention or certain bladder disorders. By activating the M3 receptors in the bladder, it increases the tone of the detrusor muscle and causes the bladder to contract, thereby promoting urination. In addition to its effects on the urinary system, Bethanechol can also affect smooth muscles in other organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract. It can increase the muscular contractions of the gastrointestinal tract, which may be beneficial in certain conditions involving reduced motility, such as postoperative ileus or constipation. Possible side effects of using bethanechol may include belching, blurred vision, dizziness, and headache.

Bethanechol Pathway References