Question 1

What is Benzonatate?

Accepted Answer

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic medication classified as an antitussive. Its primary purpose is to act as a cough suppressant by affecting the respiratory system's response mechanisms.

The medication works by numbing the stretch receptors found within the lungs and air passages. This action serves to reduce the activity of the cough reflex at its source.

Question 2

What is Benzonatate used for?

Accepted Answer

Benzonatate is used to treat cough .

Question 3

How does Benzonatate work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Benzonatate belongs to a class of medications known as antitussives. Unlike some other cough suppressants that work on the cough center in the brain, benzonatate works peripherally in the body. It is chemically related to local anesthetics, such as procaine or tetracaine.

When taken, the medication works by:

Numbing stretch receptors: It anesthetizes specialized sensors called stretch receptors located in the lungs, air passages, and the lining of the chest cavity.

Reducing the cough reflex: By numbing these receptors, the medication dampens their activity. This makes the respiratory system less sensitive to the triggers that normally cause a person to cough.

Providing localized relief: Because it targets the respiratory tract directly, it reduces the cough reflex at its source.

Onset and Duration

The effects of benzonatate typically begin within 15 to 20 minutes after the capsule is swallowed. The cough-suppressing effects generally last between 3 and 8 hours.

Question 4

What are the brand names for Benzonatate?

Accepted Answer

Benzonatate is sold under the brand names Tessalon , Zonatuss , and Tessalon Perles .

Question 5

What are the active ingredients in Benzonatate?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Benzonatate is benzonatate .

Question 6

What are the side effects of Benzonatate?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Benzonatate may include:

drowsiness

dizziness

headache

and others

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 7

What drug class is Benzonatate?

Accepted Answer

Benzonatate belongs to the antitussive drug class.

Question 8

What is the dosage of Benzonatate and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Benzonatate

Benzonatate comes as a liquid-filled capsule to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken three times a day as needed for cough relief. You may take this medication with or without food.

Swallow the capsules whole. Do not chew, crush, cut, or suck on the capsules. If the medication is released in your mouth, it can cause a temporary loss of feeling in your mouth, tongue, and throat. This numbness may lead to choking or other serious complications. If you experience numbness or tingling in your mouth or throat, do not eat or drink until the feeling has completely returned.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.

Question 9

Is Benzonatate safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies regarding the use of benzonatate in pregnant women. Additionally, animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with this medication. It is currently unknown whether benzonatate can cause fetal harm or affect reproductive capacity when administered to a pregnant person.

Due to the lack of safety data, benzonatate should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk and if it is clearly needed. Individuals who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should consult their healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of using this cough suppressant.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether benzonatate is excreted in human breast milk. Because many medications are passed through breast milk, healthcare providers typically advise caution when administering benzonatate to a person who is nursing. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to discuss the potential risks to the infant and the necessity of the medication with a healthcare professional before use.

Question 10

What forms and strengths does Benzonatate come in?

Accepted Answer

Available Forms

Benzonatate is available as an oral capsule. These capsules are liquid-filled and are designed to be swallowed whole. They are sometimes described as perles due to their shape and appearance.

There are currently no other dosage forms available for this medication, such as oral liquids, tablets, or injectable versions.

Question 11

What is the FDA approval status of Benzonatate?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Benzonatate was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1958. It is indicated for the symptomatic relief of cough. It is available only by prescription and is not classified as a controlled substance.

Safety Communications

The FDA has issued safety alerts regarding the risk of accidental ingestion of benzonatate, especially by children. Because the medication is often dispensed in liquid-filled gelatin capsules that may look like candy, it poses a significant risk to young children.

Age Restrictions: Benzonatate is not FDA-approved for use in children under the age of 10.

Overdose Risk: Accidental ingestion of even a small number of capsules can be fatal for a child. Signs of overdose can occur within 15 to 20 minutes of ingestion.

Healthcare providers are advised to counsel patients on the importance of keeping this medication in a child-resistant container and stored out of reach of children to prevent accidental poisoning.

Question 12

What should I know about Benzonatate and cough?

Accepted Answer

How Benzonatate Works

Benzonatate belongs to a class of medicines known as antitussives, or cough suppressants. It works differently than many other cough medicines because it acts as a local anesthetic. It numbs the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways, which helps to dampen the cough reflex and reduce the urge to cough.

Onset and Duration

This medication is intended for the symptomatic relief of a cough. It typically begins to work within 15 to 20 minutes after ingestion. The effects of a single dose generally last between 3 and 8 hours.

Important Safety Instructions for Cough Relief

To ensure the medication works safely and effectively for your cough, it is critical to follow these administration guidelines:

Swallow capsules whole: You must swallow the capsule entire. Do not chew, crush, dissolve, or suck on the medication.

Avoid throat numbness: If the capsule is broken or chewed in the mouth, it can cause immediate numbing of the mouth, tongue, and throat. This can lead to a loss of the gag reflex and potential choking.

Eating and drinking: If you experience any numbness in your mouth or throat after taking benzonatate, do not eat or drink anything until the feeling has completely returned.

Benzonatate

Medication Quick Facts

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Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

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