Bethanechol chloride?

See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Bethanechol

What is Bethanechol chloride?

Bethanechol chloride is a centrally acting parasympathomimetic medication used to treat or prevent acute urinary retention, delayed recovery of bladder control following surgery, and neurogenic bladder caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, or spinal cord injury [1]. It works by stimulating the muscles of the bladder and the muscles of the prostate gland, thus helping to relax the muscles and improve urine flow.

How does Bethanechol chloride work?

Bethanechol chloride belongs to a class of medications known as cholinomimetic agents, which stimulate the cholinergic nervous system. It works by mimicking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps to relax the muscles in the bladder and prostate gland. This relaxation of muscles increases bladder contractions, allowing for more efficient urine storage and emptying [2].

Is Bethanechol chloride used for any other conditions?

Although not approved for these uses, bethanechol chloride has been used off-label to treat certain conditions, such as postoperative bladder atony, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and tofacilitate bowel movements in some patients with gastrointestinal disorders [3].

When was Bethanechol chloride first introduced?

Bethanechol chloride has been in use since the 1950s, initially introduced under the brand name Duvoid [4]. Since then, it has become a widely used medication for various urinary retention and bladder control issues.

Patent Information

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the original patent for bethanechol chloride (Duvoid) expired in 1961, allowing for the release of generic versions of the medication [5].

References

[1] RxList - Bethanechol [Accessed on 24 June 2026]

[2] MedlinePlus - Bethanechol [Accessed on 24 June 2026]

[3] NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) - Off-label use of bethanechol chloride [Accessed on 24 June 2026]

[4] PubMed - Duvoid (bethanechol chloride) [Accessed on 24 June 2026]

[5] DrugPatentWatch - Bethanechol [Accessed on 24 June 2026]

Sources:

1. RxList - Bethanechol
2. MedlinePlus - Bethanechol
3. NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) - Off-label use of bethanechol chloride
4. PubMed - Duvoid (bethanechol chloride)
5. DrugPatentWatch - Bethanechol