Generic name: bethanechol (be THAN e chol)
Brand name: Urecholine
Drug class: Miscellaneous genitourinary tract agents
Urecholine is used to treat urinary retention (trouble urinating) that may be caused by surgery, delivering a baby, or other conditions.
Urecholine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Urecholine if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- slow heartbeats or very low blood pressure (especially if this has caused you to faint);
- coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);
- asthma;
- an overactive thyroid;
- epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
- an active ulcer in your stomach or intestines;
- a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines);
- peritonitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the organs inside your abdomen);
- a bladder obstruction or other urination problems;
- Parkinson's disease; or
- if you recently had surgery on your bladder or intestines.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- urination problems, or a bladder infection;
- a stomach or intestinal disorder;
- heart problems;
- low blood pressure;
- a thyroid disorder; or
- breathing problems.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
You should not breastfeed while using Urecholine.
Urecholine is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take Urecholine?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take Urecholine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
It may take up to 90 minutes before your symptoms improve. The effects of bethanechol usually last for about 1 hour.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 90 minutes after taking Urecholine.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep the tablets in their original container, along with the packet or canister of moisture-absorbing preservative.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include drooling, stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or feeling hot.
What should I avoid while taking Urecholine?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Urecholine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy.
Urecholine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- slow heartbeats;
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or
- wheezing, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Common side effects may include:
- an urgent need to urinate;
- stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea;
- burping, increased saliva;
- headache, dizziness;
- sweating, flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
- a general ill feeling; or
- watery eyes, vision changes.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Urecholine?
Other drugs may affect Urecholine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.