• Basic Info
• Top Questions
• Clinical Info
• Interactions

What are the possible side effects of bethanechol?

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

• shortness of breath, wheezing, or tightness in your chest.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take bethanechol and talk to your doctor if you experience

• dizziness or drowsiness;

• headache;

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort;

• slow heartbeats followed by fast heartbeats;

• flushing or warmth about the face;

• sweating; or

• tearing eyes.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect bethanechol?

Before taking bethanechol, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• donepezil (Aricept);

• tacrine (Cognex);

• quinidine (Cardioquin, others); or

• procainamide (Pronestyl, Procan SR).

You may not be able to take bethanechol, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with bethanechol. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has more information about bethanechol written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Bethanechol is available with a prescription under the brand name Urecholine. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Urecholine 5 mg--white, round, scored tablets

• Urecholine 10 mg--pink, round, scored tablets

• Urecholine 25 mg--yellow, round, scored tablets

• Urecholine 50 mg--yellow, round, scored tablets

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.