Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Bethanechol
Severity: Moderate
Belladonna and opium and Bethanechol: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
The belladonna component is antimuscarinic and the opium component slows gut motility and can cause urinary retention, both opposing bethanechol's intended effects. Efficacy of bethanechol is likely reduced.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Bethanechol can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Antimuscarinic blockade by belladonna alkaloids plus opioid-mediated reduction in smooth muscle motility oppose muscarinic stimulation.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. Monitor bladder emptying and bowel function if both are used.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Bethanechol
- Bethanechol + Darifenacin Major
- Bethanechol + Fesoterodine Major
- Bethanechol + Oxybutynin Major
- Bethanechol + Physostigmine Major
- Amifampridine + Bethanechol Moderate
- Amitriptyline + Bethanechol Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Bethanechol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Belladonna and opium and Bethanechol can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. The belladonna component is antimuscarinic and the opium component slows gut motility and can cause urinary retention, both opposing bethanechol's intended effects. Efficacy of bethanechol is likely reduced.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Bethanechol?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where possible. Monitor bladder emptying and bowel function if both are used.
What other medicines interact with Bethanechol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Bethanechol with, for example, Darifenacin, Fesoterodine, Oxybutynin. The full list is on the Bethanechol page.
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