Bethanechol chloride in urology—A discussion of issues

The widespread and long‐standing use of bethanechol chloride in urology attests as much to the lack of a suitable alternative as it does to the drug's perceived efficacy. The bases for both positive and negative conclusions about bethanechol's usefulness are critically examined and areas of controversy and uncertainty highlighted. An attempt is made to rationalize bethanechol's effects in the light of recent investigations into its mechanism of action but clearly more information is required for a full understanding of the drug's action and its' appropriate place in urologic practice.