Overview
Benzonatate, a non-opioid and non-narcotic cough suppressant, distinguishes itself by providing quick relief without inducing drowsiness. Widely prescribed brands like Tessalon®, Perles®, and Zonatuss® are primarily used to treat irritating coughs associated with the flu, colds, or infections. Dr. Richard Honekar recommends personalized prescriptions and strict adherence to dosages for effective treatment, especially given its incompatibility with alcohol and certain medications, and the importance of avoiding chewing the tablet or capsule.
This medication, effective within 15-20 minutes and lasting 4-8 hours, is tailored for various types of cough but isn’t suitable for conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis. Careful consideration of drug interactions, such as avoiding CNS depressants and narcotics, is crucial. Overall, benzonatate’s rapid action and unique properties position it as a reliable option, but consultation with healthcare providers is essential for optimal use and addressing persistent coughing.
What is Benzonatate?
Benzonatate belongs to an antitussive (cough suppressant) class of medications. It’s only non-opioid, non-narcotic, which doesn’t make one sleepy or drowsy. It’s different from other cough medications due to its non-addictive properties for patients.
It’s one of the most effective cough suppressant medications for treating irritating coughs due to the flu, cold, or infection.
Some common Benzonatate brands are Tessalon®, Perles®, and Zonatuss®, which are widely prescribed and used for cough relief.
How does Benzonatate help with cough?
Benzonatate is an effective cough suppressant that works on the respiratory tract, numbing the receptors in the airways and eventually affecting the cough reflex, providing instant relief from the irritating cough associated with a cold or other medical conditions.
It also works on the cough center in the brain that controls the cough reflex. This medication is often termed “local anesthetics” and is prescribed to numb and anesthetize the area, leading to treating the “Urge to cough.”
says Dr Richard Honekar
Benzonatate helps with relieving cough effectively by working on the airway passages. Make sure to get the personalized prescription and stay compliant with the prescribed dose and duration of medication for effective treatment,
What types of coughs are treated with Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is generally prescribed for the management of all types of cough, either from
- Colds
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia.
It works effectively on the respiratory passages and chemically interacts with the receptors and the cough reflex to give relief. It’s essential to note that a cough is often associated with smoking or long-term respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis. Those medical conditions need steroid treatment to be effectively treated. In such scenarios, Prednisone is prescribed for the asthma-related cough as per the severity and nature of the medical condition. It also depends on the person’s age in getting the medication.
How should I use Benzonatate for a cough?
Benzonatate is not an over-the-counter medication and should only be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider, including the dose, dosage, and strength, at the prescribed frequency. Some of the generally prescribed doses for adults and adolescents are as follows :
Dosage for Adults:
The typical adult dose is usually 100 to 200 mg orally three times daily as needed.
It’s important not to exceed the prescribed dosage, as Benzonatate can have side effects, especially if taken in excessive amounts.
Dosage for Children/Adolescents
It’s important to note that the use of Benzonatate in children should be under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Pediatric dosages are typically lower than adult dosages ( >100mg ) based on the child’s age, weight, and overall health.
When taking benzonatate, make sure not to chew the tablet or capsule when taken orally, as it might cause anesthetic effects in your oral cavity that will further prevent you from eating until the effect vanishes,
says Dr.Kate
What drugs should not be taken with Benzonatate?
Benzonatate should be taken with caution, as some medications should not be taken with benzonatate to avoid adverse effects or decreased absorption.
- Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while taking benzonatate, as it affects the absorption of benzonatate and impacts liver health.
- Central Nervous System Depressants (CNS depressants) should also be avoided with benzonatate. Some of the CNS depressants are as follows :
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Narcotics/Opioids:
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Other Cough and Cold Medications:
- Dextromethorphan (in cough syrups)
- Guaifenesin (found in some cough and cold medications)
- Phenylephrine (a decongestant)
It is beneficial to share your medication and medical condition history with your healthcare provider and pharmacist to avoid any drug-related interactions. It is essential to follow the prescribed regimen at the specified dose for the prescribed period to achieve maximum effectiveness.
How long does Benzonatate take to work for cough?
Benzonatate takes only 15-20 minutes to take effect, especially for coughs, after which you will feel relief. Its lifespan in the body is about 4-8 hours, during which its effect remains in the body. After this, the following or second dose should be administered.
Follow the prescribed regimen at the recommended frequency to achieve maximum effectiveness for your medical condition.
When should I see a doctor?
Several reasons, including a cold, flu, infection, or any other related medical condition, can cause a cough. Several cough suppressants and anti-tussive medications can be effective for treatment. Only your healthcare provider can determine and prescribe the proper medication for your cough.
FAQs about Benzonatate for cough
Benzonatate is a category-C medication and is not safe for pregnant or nursing women. Category C indicates that this medication has shown adverse effects on animals during studies, which categorizes it as Category C and should only be used when the benefits outweigh the risks to developing fetuses.
Benzonatate is not explicitly used or prescribed for chronic coughs associated with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions. It is prescribed for coughs directly linked to the common cold, flu, etc. It’s beneficial to consult your healthcare provider for the most suitable medication for your medical condition.
