bethanechol

[ be-than-i-kawl, -kol ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a substance, C 7 H 17 ClN 2 O 2 , used to treat urinary retention, especially postoperatively.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bethanechol¹

Perhaps beth- (blend of beta and methyl ) + -ane + chol(ine); the substance is a urethan of beta-methylcholine chloride

Example Sentences

The remedy in most of these cases, said Dr. Danhof, is bethanechol chloride, sold as Myocholine and Urecholine, to improve the bowel's muscle tone.

From Time Magazine Archive