The effects of bethanechol chloride on urodynamic parameters in normal women and in women with significant residual urine volumes.

A 5 mg. subcutaneous dose of bethanechol chloride was given to 12 women with residual urine volumes equal to or greater than 20 per cent of bladder capacity but no evidence of neurologic disease, or anatomic or functional outlet obstruction and to 27 normal women wtih approximately the same mean age. The cystometric and some profilometric parameters did change, indicating that the drug was pharmacologically active. No improvement in voiding function was noted, as judged by residual urine volume and flow rate measurements. These results raise significant questions regarding the contemporary use of this drug, especially in the currently recommended oral dosages.