Question 1

What is Bethanechol used for?

Accepted Answer

Bethanechol is indicated for: Detrusor atony, urinary retention.

Question 2

What routes can Bethanechol be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: PO, SC.

Question 3

Which species have cited Bethanechol dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Bethanechol dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Bethanechol a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Bethanechol is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Bethanechol?

Accepted Answer

Do NOT use with urethral obstruction (bladder rupture risk). GI cramps, salivation, bradycardia. Give on empty stomach to reduce nausea. SC route preferred for acute urinary retention.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Bethanechol?

Accepted Answer

Do NOT use with urethral obstruction (bladder rupture risk). GI cramps, salivation, bradycardia. Give on empty stomach to reduce nausea. SC route preferred for acute urinary retention.

Question 7

How does Bethanechol work?

Accepted Answer

Selective muscarinic M3 receptor agonist stimulating detrusor muscle contraction. Increases bladder tone and facilitates voiding.

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	PO	2.5–15 mg per dog	q8h	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	PO	1.25–7.5 mg per cat	q8h	Moderate	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Bethanechol

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Bethanechol dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by a published primary source

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

Upgrade for Full Details