Duvoid

Common Name: bethanechol chloride

How does Duvoid work?

This medication is used to treat problems with urination due to nerve problems in the bladder, or weakness in certain bladder muscles. It works by stimulating the bladder muscles that are responsible for causing urination. Bethanechol is also used to treat people who have trouble urinating after surgery or after delivering a baby. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Duvoid?

This medication is best taken on an empty stomach. If taken shortly after eating, nausea and vomiting may occur. The usual adult dose ranges from 10 mg to 50 mg taken three or four times daily. The medication begins to work within 60 to 90 minutes and its effects last for up to six hours. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be applied exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible (not immediately after eating) and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule.

What form(s) does Duvoid come in?

Duvoid® is available in strengths of 10 mg, 25 mg, and 50 mg. 10 mg: Each pale orange, flat, round tablet, scored and engraved "10" on one side, contains bethanechol 10 mg. 25 mg: Each white, flat, round tablet, scored and engraved "25" on one side, contains bethanechol 25 mg. 50 mg: Each tan, flat, round tablet, bisected and engraved "50" on one side, contains bethanechol 50 mg. This medication does not contain bisulfite, gluten, lactose, paraben, sodium, or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Duvoid?

Bethanechol chloride should not be used by anyone who: has an overactive thyroid is pregnant is breast-feeding has a stomach ulcer has asthma has severe lowering of heart rate or blood pressure has coronary artery disease has vasomotor instability has epilepsy has Parkinson's disease is allergic to bethanechol or any of the ingredients in this medication has questionable strength or integrity of the gastrointestinal or bladder wall   has had recent urinary bladder surgery has increased muscular activity of the gastrointestinal tract or urinary bladder that might prove harmful (i.e., following recent urinary bladder surgery, stomach, or intestine resection) has possible gastrointestinal or bladder obstruction has bladder neck obstruction has spastic gastrointestinal disturbances has acute inflammatory lesions of the gastrointestinal tract has peritonitis has severe vagotonia

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Duvoid?

Asthma: Bethanechol could worsen asthma symptoms in some cases. Epilepsy: Bethanechol may increase the risk of seizures for people with epilepsy. Heart disease: Bethanechol could worsen the symptoms of certain types of heart disease. Low blood pressure: For people with low blood pressure, use of bethanechol could cause a further reduction in blood pressure thereby resulting in a worsening of symptoms. Overactive thyroid: Bethanechol could increase the risk of heart problems associated with overactive thyroid. Parkinson's disease: Bethanechol could worsen the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Stomach problems: Bethanechol could worsen stomach ulcers or other stomach problems.