Benzonatate is a medication used to relieve persistent cough in adults. It works by numbing the nerve endings in the respiratory tract, which helps reduce the cough reflex and ease irritation in the throat and lungs.
This medicine does not treat the underlying cause of the cough but helps manage the symptom when it becomes uncomfortable or affects quality of life. It should only be used for the duration prescribed by a healthcare provider and should not be used alone to treat infections.
Benzonatate is available in capsule form and is sold under brand names such as Tessalon, Tessalon Perles, and Benzonatate, all containing the active ingredient benzonatate.
What benzonatate is used for
Benzonatate is used to:
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Relieve persistent cough, especially when not associated with mucus or phlegm
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Reduce the cough reflex caused by irritation of the airways
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Improve breathing comfort in cases of dry or irritative cough
Its effect comes from its ability to numb the nerve endings in the respiratory tract, helping to decrease the frequent and uncomfortable urge to cough.
Benzonatate dosage (100 mg and 200 mg)
The dosage of benzonatate depends on the form available and the person’s age. It must always be prescribed by a doctor and adjusted individually based on the person’s specific health condition.
In general, for adults and adolescents over 10 years old, the usual dose is 100 to 200 mg every 8 hours, not exceeding 600 mg per day.
How to take
Benzonatate capsules should be swallowed whole with water and should never be chewed, crushed, or dissolved. Chewing or breaking the capsules can cause numbness in the mouth or throat, increasing the risk of choking.
It is important to follow the dosage and schedule prescribed by the doctor, as taking too much benzonatate can lead to serious toxicity and heart or neurological problems.
Side effects
The most common side effects of benzonatate include:
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Mild drowsiness or tiredness
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Nausea or mild stomach discomfort
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Dizziness or mild confusion
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Neck stiffness (reported in some cases)
In severe cases, accidental overdose can cause seizures or irregular heartbeat.
Benzonatate is generally well tolerated when taken as directed. However, overdose can cause serious effects such as seizures, cardiac arrest, and organ damage, especially in children or when the capsules are chewed instead of swallowed whole.
Contraindications for use
Benzonatate is contraindicated for people allergic to the active ingredient or any component of the formula. It should not be used in children under 10 years old due to a high risk of toxicity.
It is also not recommended for people who are sensitive to local anesthetics. In addition, benzonatate should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding because there is not enough evidence regarding its safety in these situations.