What is Benzonatate: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Benzonatate is a prescription cough suppressant that helps calm persistent, dry coughs that keep you up at night or disrupt your daily activities. This medication works differently from over-the-counter cough medicines by numbing the nerve pathways in your lungs and throat that trigger the cough reflex, giving your body the relief it needs to rest and heal.

What is Benzonatate?

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic prescription medication specifically designed to suppress coughs. It belongs to a class of medicines called antitussives, which means "anti-cough" medications that work by blocking the signals your body sends when it wants to cough.

Unlike many cough medicines that contain codeine or other opioids, benzonatate doesn't cause drowsiness or carry the risk of addiction. The medication comes in soft gelatin capsules that you swallow whole, and it's been helping people manage stubborn coughs for decades with a well-established safety profile.

What is Benzonatate Used For?

Benzonatate is prescribed to treat dry, unproductive coughs that don't bring up mucus or phlegm. Your doctor might recommend this medication when you have a persistent cough from conditions like bronchitis, pneumonia, or upper respiratory infections that keep you awake or interfere with your daily life.

This medication works particularly well for coughs that feel scratchy, tickling, or irritating in your throat and chest. It's especially helpful when other cough remedies haven't provided adequate relief, or when you need something stronger than over-the-counter options but want to avoid narcotic-based cough suppressants.

How Does Benzonatate Work?

Benzonatate works by numbing the stretch receptors in your lungs, throat, and airways that normally trigger your cough reflex. Think of it as creating a temporary "quiet zone" in the nerve pathways that tell your brain to cough, allowing these irritated areas to rest and recover.

This medication is considered moderately strong compared to over-the-counter cough medicines but gentler than narcotic cough suppressants. The numbing effect typically begins within 15 to 20 minutes after taking a capsule and can last for several hours, giving you sustained relief from persistent coughing.

How Should I Take Benzonatate?

Take benzonatate exactly as your doctor prescribed, usually one capsule three times daily or as needed for cough relief. Always swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water, and never chew, crush, or break them open, as this can cause serious side effects including throat numbness and choking.

You can take benzonatate with or without food, though some people find it easier on their stomach when taken with a light meal or snack. Space your doses evenly throughout the day, and don't take more than the prescribed amount even if your cough feels particularly bothersome.

If you're taking other medications, especially other cough or cold medicines, let your doctor know to avoid potential interactions. Store the medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat, and keep it out of reach of children since the capsules can be dangerous if chewed.

How Long Should I Take Benzonatate For?

Most people take benzonatate for a short period, typically 5 to 10 days, depending on how long their cough lasts. Your doctor will determine the right duration based on your specific condition and how you respond to the medication.

If your cough persists beyond a week of treatment, or if you develop new symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood, contact your healthcare provider promptly. These could be signs that your underlying condition needs different treatment or further evaluation.

What Are the Side Effects of Benzonatate?

Most people tolerate benzonatate well, but like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident about your treatment and know when to seek medical attention.

The most common side effects are generally mild and temporary as your body adjusts to the medication:

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headache
• Stuffy nose or nasal congestion
• Constipation
• Mild skin rash or itching

These side effects typically improve within a few days as your body gets used to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, your doctor can help adjust your treatment plan.

More serious side effects are uncommon but require immediate medical attention if they occur:

• Severe allergic reactions with difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, or widespread rash
• Chest tightness or pain
• Confusion or mental changes
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Burning or numbness in your eyes

If you accidentally chew or break a capsule, you might experience temporary numbness in your mouth and throat, which can be frightening but usually resolves within an hour. However, contact your doctor if this happens to ensure you're safe.

Who Should Not Take Benzonatate?

Benzonatate isn't suitable for everyone, and your doctor will carefully consider your medical history before prescribing it. Certain conditions or circumstances make this medication inappropriate or potentially dangerous.

You should not take benzonatate if you're allergic to it or to local anesthetics like procaine or tetracaine. People with certain heart conditions, severe liver or kidney disease, or those who have trouble swallowing should discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare provider.

Special caution is needed for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the safety of benzonatate during pregnancy and nursing isn't fully established. Children under 10 years old should not take this medication due to increased risk of serious side effects, including accidental overdose if they chew the capsules.

Benzonatate Brand Names

Benzonatate is available under several brand names, with Tessalon Perles being the most commonly prescribed version. Other brand names include Zonatuss and generic benzonatate, which contain the same active ingredient and work identically to the brand-name versions.

Regardless of which brand your pharmacy provides, the medication will have the same effectiveness and dosing instructions. Your insurance may cover certain brands differently, so discuss options with your pharmacist if cost is a concern.

Benzonatate Alternatives

If benzonatate doesn't work well for you or causes uncomfortable side effects, several alternative treatments can help manage your cough. Your doctor might recommend other prescription cough suppressants, expectorants to help clear mucus, or medications that treat the underlying cause of your cough.

Over-the-counter options include dextromethorphan-based cough medicines, though these are generally less effective for severe coughs. Natural remedies like honey, throat lozenges, and staying well-hydrated can also provide some relief, especially when used alongside prescribed treatments.

For chronic coughs, your doctor might explore treatments for underlying conditions like asthma, acid reflux, or allergies that could be triggering your symptoms. The best alternative depends on what's causing your cough and your individual medical needs.

Is Benzonatate Better Than Dextromethorphan?

Benzonatate and dextromethorphan work through different mechanisms, making them suitable for different types of coughs and situations. Benzonatate is generally more effective for severe, persistent coughs because it requires a prescription and works by numbing the cough receptors directly.

Dextromethorphan, available over-the-counter, works in the brain to suppress the cough reflex and is often sufficient for mild to moderate coughs. However, for stubborn coughs that don't respond to over-the-counter treatments, benzonatate typically provides superior relief.

Your doctor will consider factors like the severity of your cough, underlying conditions, other medications you're taking, and your medical history to determine which option is best for you. Sometimes, healthcare providers recommend trying over-the-counter treatments first before moving to prescription options.