Bethanechol

Bethanechol (be-Than-e-kol [key]) is a parasympathomimetic choline ester that selectively stimulates muscarinic receptors without any affect on nicotinic receptors. Its chemical structure is 2-((aminocarbonyl)oxy)-N,N,N-trimethyl-1-propanaminium.

Bethanechol is sometimes given orally or subcutaneously to treat urinary retention resulting from general anaesthetic. Unlike acetylcholine, bethanachol is not hydrolyzed by cholinesterase.

Bethanechol is sold under the brand names Duvoid (Roberts), Myotonachol (Glenwood), and Urecholine (Merck Frosst).

Sources

• Brenner, G. M. (2000). Pharmacology. Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders Company. ISBN 0-7216-7757-6
• Canadian Pharmacists Association (2000). Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (25th ed.). Toronto, ON: Webcom. ISBN 0-919115-76-4