ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It acts on the bladder muscle.
What it's used for
- Urinary retention without a blockage
How to take it
- Take it on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Sweating
- Flushing
- Stomach cramps
- Needing to pee urgently
Call 911Wheezing, fainting, or a very slow heartbeat
Warnings
- Not for people with asthma, slow heart rate, or bladder or bowel blockage.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Anticholinergic medicines work against it.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Bethanechol (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.