Tessalon

benzonatate

Brand(s):

• Benz Cap

Manufacturer:

• Lupin Limited

Disease(s):

• Cough

Known as:

• Tessalon / Zonatus

Benzonatate Capsules: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Benzonatate?

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic cough suppressant. Its mechanism of action involves numbing the throat and lungs, thus reducing the cough reflex. It's primarily used to relieve coughs, but may have other off-label uses. Always consult a doctor before using this medication.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before taking benzonatate, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history. You should not use this medication if you have a known allergy to benzonatate or topical numbing agents like tetracaine or procaine (often found in creams for insect bites or sunburns).

Benzonatate is categorized as FDA pregnancy category C. This means its effects on unborn babies are not fully understood. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctors before using this medication. Similarly, do not administer benzonatate to children under 10 years old without explicit medical advice. An overdose of benzonatate, particularly in children, can be fatal.

How to Take Benzonatate

Always follow your doctor's prescription instructions precisely. Never alter the dosage or duration of treatment without consulting your physician. The prescription label should provide clear guidelines. Remember, it is never wise to give cough medicine to a child without first consulting a doctor. Always take each dose with a full glass of water. Crucially, never suck or chew on a benzonatate capsule. Swallow it whole. Chewing or sucking can lead to numbness in the mouth and throat, and potentially more serious adverse reactions.

Missed Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one.

Potential Drug Interactions

Before starting benzonatate, disclose all medications you're currently taking to your doctor, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. This is especially important if you regularly use medications that cause drowsiness, such as cold or allergy medications, sedatives, narcotic pain relievers, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and medications for seizures, depression, or anxiety. These can have additive effects with benzonatate, increasing drowsiness and other side effects. Always inform your doctor before starting any new medication while on benzonatate.

Monitoring While Using Benzonatate

Remember the crucial safety advice: Never suck or chew a benzonatate capsule. Swallow the capsule whole. Doing otherwise can cause serious side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects such as:

• A choking sensation
• Chest pain or numbness
• Feeling faint or lightheaded
• Confusion
• Hallucinations

Some of these serious side effects may be linked to chewing or sucking on the capsule. Avoid giving this medication to children under 10 without medical advice. A benzonatate overdose can be fatal for a child.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking benzonatate and contact your doctor immediately if you have serious side effects (listed above). Less serious side effects might include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea, vomiting, constipation
• Mild itching or skin rash

This is not an exhaustive list of all potential side effects.

Storage Instructions

Store benzonatate capsules at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.