Generic Name: Benzonatate
Brand Name: Tessalon 

 

What is Benzonatate?

Benzonatate is in a class of medications called antitussives (cough suppressants), and is used to treat cough due to the common cold, pneumonia, bronchitis, or other infections of the lung. It works by reducing the cough reflex in the lungs and air passages.

This medicine has an anesthetic (numbing) action similar to that of benzocaine and "numbs" the stretch sensors in the lungs. It is the stretching of these sensors during inhalation that causes cough. Benzonatate begins to work within 15 to 20 minutes, and its effects last for approximately 3 hours. It may also be noted that this medicine is unrelated to narcotics such as codeine that are frequently used to suppress coughs.
                                            

How to take Benzonatate?

Benzonatate comes as a liquid-filled capsule (perle) and a regular capsule to be taken by mouth. This medicine usually is given three times daily or as and when needed for instant cough-relief. Generally, more than 6 capsules per diem is not recommended. The capsules should be swallowed whole and should not be broken or chewed. If this medicine is released in the mouth, it may make the mouth numb and cause choking.

What are the side effects of Benzonatate?

 

Benzonatate may cause side effects, of which the most frequent include

  • upset stomach
  • constipation
  • headache
  • drowsiness
  • burning in the eyes
  • dizziness
  • stuffed nose
  • rash or hives
  • itching

 

Sometimes the side effects can be a little more serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, try to contact your doctor immediately:
 

  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • lack of mental clarity
  • hallucinations

 

 Warnings and precautions before and while taking Benzonatate:

It is important that you tell your doctor

  • if you are allergic to benzonatate, procaine (Novocain), tetracaine (Pontocaine), or any other medications.
  • what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking
  • if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking benzonatate, inform your doctor.
  • if you are having surgery, including dental surgery

Drowsiness:  This medicine may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.
Category C: This medicine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Benzonatate will harm or affect an unborn baby in any way. Therefore it is advised not to take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Also, do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Caution regarding younger children:  It must be especially noted that the safety and effectiveness of Benzonatate have not been established for children younger than 10 years of age.
 

What to do if you take an overdose of Benzonatate?

 

Emergency medical attention must be sought without delay. Symptoms of an overdose of Benzonatate include numbness in the mouth or throat, restlessness, tremors and shaking.  Seizures may occur too. In extreme cases, even death may result.

What to do if you have missed a dose of Benzonatate?

This medication is usually taken as and when needed. However, if you are advised by your doctor to take benzonatate regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. Remember that if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How to store Benzonatate:

Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

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