What Is Benzonatate? Interactions, Uses, And Side Effects
As one of the most effective cough treatments, benzonatate can be useful in surpressing coughing and improving airflow to the lungs. It can be purchased as a generic drug and as the brand name drug Zonatuss and Tessalon Perles. In the following short article, we discuss the brand names, uses, side effects, and warnings of benzonatate. We also answer popular questions like how does benzonatate work? Read on to learn more.
What Is Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is a prescription medication used to relieve coughing. It is an antitussive medication that is otherwise known as a cough supressant.
How Does Benzonatate Work?
Benzonatate works by reducing the cough reflux in the lungs and airways. After absorption and circulation to the respiratory tract, benzonatate acts as a local anesthetic. In this way, it is able to decrease the sensitivity of bronchi, alveoli, and pleura in the lower airway and lung. This decreases their activity and reduces the cough reflex.
Benzonatate Brand Names
Benzonanate is available as a generic medication and a brand name drug under the following titles:
- Tessalon Perles
- Zonatuss
Side Effects of Benzonatate
Some side effects of benzonatate are more common and less serious than others and may include wheezing, shortage of breath, rash and itching.
Common Side Effects
Most side effects are relatively mild and should disappear within a few days. These more common side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Diahrrea
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Breakouts
- Nasal congestion
Serious Side Effects
Other side effects of benzonatate are more serious and may require medical attention. Talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling in throat
- Tightness in throat
- Heart and blood vessel issues
- Abnormally low blood pressure
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Chest numbness
- Burning in the eyes
If you experience any of the above side effects and believe they may be life-threatening, please call 9-11 immediately.
Disclaimer: Here at Manifest Pharmacy, our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.
How To Take Benzonatate
Take benzonatate as prescribed by your doctor. Your dosage for benzonatate may differ depending on many factors, including the following:
- Your age
- Your condition
- How severe your condition is
- Other medical conditions
- How you react to your first dose
Benzonatate Dosage
Take benzonatate exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of side effects.
Swallow the capsules whole. Do not break, crush, or chew benzonatate capsules. If the capsules come in contact with the mouth, it may cause the mouth and throat to become numb (loss of feeling) and choking may occur.
If numbness or tingling of the mouth, tongue, throat, or face occurs, do not eat or drink until these symptoms disappear. Check with your doctor right away if these symptoms persist or become worse.
Dosage For Cough Relief
Adult: 100-200mg three times per day as needed.
Pediatric: 100-200mg three times per day as needed.
Benzonatate Warnings
This medication comes with several warnings, some of which are severe. It is advisable to seek medical help immediately if you experience any of the following warnings or symptoms.
Numbness Warning
Call your doctor if you have numbness of your tongue, mouth, throat, or face that doesn’t go away or gets worse. If you experience numbness while taking benzonatate, try not to eat or drink anything until the numbness goes away.
Allergies Warning
For some people, benzonatate can cause a serious allergic reaction. If you begin experience any common symptoms of allergic reaction such as hives and rash, talk with a doctor immediately
Interactions Of Benzonatate
Benzonatate may interact with other medications that cause drowsiness including, cough and cold medications, antihistamines, anti-seizure drugs, medicine for sleep or anxiety, muscle relaxants, narcotics, or psychiatric medicines.
What Is Benzonatate? Interactions, Uses, And Side Effects: Summary
Benzonatate is a prescription medication that can be used to treat coughing and improve airflow to the lungs. It is sold as both a generic drug and a brand name drug under the titles Zonatuss and Tessalon Perles.
