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Bethanecol Chloride

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Bethanechol chloride is used to stimulate muscular contractions in your pet’s bladder. It has been used in pets unable to urinate.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. Read the label carefully.
• Give this medication on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after meals, unless otherwise instructed by veterinarian.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential Side Effects

• Your pet may experience some stomach upset, such as diarrhea, vomiting and lack of appetite. If these symptoms appear excessive or persist, contact your veterinarian.
• If your pet starts to drool excessively, contact your veterinarian.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible Drug Interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with bethanechol: quinidine, procainamide, epinephrine or atropine, cholinergic agents (e.g. carbachol), anticholinesterase agents (e.g. neostigmine), and ganglionic blocking drugs (e.g. mecamylamine).
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.