Effects of subcutaneous bethanechol on bladder sensation during cystometry

Bethanechol has been shown to produce a pharmacologic effect on the urinary bladder, although the clinical efficacy of this response is controversial. The measured response has been an increase in detrusor pressure, although sensory effects may occur also. In this study, 10 neurologically intact men had cystometry before subcutaneous administration of 5 mg bethanechol chloride and thirty minutes after bethanechol. The sensation of desire to void and the maximum cystometric capacity occurred at a higher intravesical pressure and a smaller bladder capacity following bethanechol. Subcutaneous bethanechol appears to alter the bladder pressure and capacity at which the perception of desire to void and the sensation of maximum fullness occurs.