Benzonatate serves as an oral medication utilized for alleviating and suppressing cough in individuals aged ten and above. At present, it stands as the lone non-narcotic antitussive offered as a prescribed medication. Its mechanism involves diminishing the cough reflex activity by desensitizing lung and pleura tissues implicated in the reflex. Initially authorized by the FDA in 1958 under the brand name Tessalon Perles, benzonatate bears resemblance to anesthetic agents within the para-amino-benzoic acid category (like procaine and tetracaine), thus displaying numbing properties. While it is not particularly prone to misuse or abuse, benzonatate does pose a risk of severe toxicity and overdose, particularly among children.
Key Facts: Benzonatate & Steroids
▪️Not a Steroid Medication
Benzonatate is a non‑narcotic antitussive (cough suppressant), not a corticosteroid or steroid derivative .
▪️Mechanism of Action
Works by numbing lung and airway stretch receptors and reducing the cough reflex, akin to local anesthetics like procaine and tetracaine .
▪️Rapid Onset, Moderate Duration
Relief typically begins in 15–20 minutes and lasts 3–8 hours .
▪️Age & Safety Considerations
Approved for patients 10 years and older; accidental ingestion in young children can cause serious toxicity or death .
▪️Route & Administration
Comes in 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg capsules—all require swallowing whole; chewing or sucking can numb the mouth and throat dangerously .
Side Effects to Know
Common: drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, constipation. Rare: hallucinations, allergic reactions, seizures, cardiac arrest—mostly from misuse or overdose .
No Known Steroid or Drug Interactions
Does not interact with steroids or antibiotics, but may increase drowsiness when combined with other CNS depressants (opioids, alcohol, sedatives) .
How to use Benzonatate
Consume this medication orally with or without food as instructed by your physician, typically three times daily as necessary.
Ingest the medication whole; avoid chewing, sucking, or dissolving it in your mouth. These actions could lead to loss of sensation in your mouth/throat and may trigger choking or a severe allergic reaction. Refrain from eating or drinking until the numbness subsides. Seek immediate medical attention if the numbness persists or worsens.
The prescribed dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, as doing so will not expedite relief from coughing but may instead result in serious side effects.
Side Effects
You may experience drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach upset, constipation, or a stuffy nose while taking this medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.
Keep in mind that your doctor has prescribed this medication because they have assessed that its benefits outweigh the risk of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
Notify your doctor immediately if you encounter any serious side effects, such as changes in mental/mood, loss of sensation in the chest, or burning in the eyes.
Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to this medication can occur. Chewing, sucking, or dissolving this medication in your mouth may increase the risk of an allergic reaction. Seek medical assistance promptly if you notice symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, or fainting.
This list does not cover all possible side effects. If you observe any other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Read Also: What Drugs can Cause Schamberg's Disease?
Pros and Cons of benzonatate
Pros:
- Effective Cough Relief
- Non-Narcotic
- Ease of Use
- Prescription-Based
Cons:
- Side Effects
- Risk of Overdose
- Potential Allergic Reactions
- Not Suitable for Everyone
Differences Between benzonatate and Carvedilol
Benzonatate:
It is an antitussive medication primarily used to relieve cough caused by conditions such as respiratory infections, allergies, or other respiratory irritants.
Carvedilol:
It is a beta-blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. Carvedilol may also be used off-label for other cardiovascular conditions.
Alternative to benzonatate
Dextromethorphan:
This is a common over-the-counter cough suppressant that works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain. It is available in various formulations, such as syrups, lozenges, and capsules.
Precautions
Before taking benzonatate, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, certain anesthetic agents (such as procaine, tetracaine), or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues. Speak with your pharmacist for additional information.
Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist.
This drug may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) may intensify these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely. Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages. If you are using marijuana (cannabis), consult your doctor.
Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions can alter the effectiveness of your medications or increase the risk of serious side effects. This document does not encompass all potential drug interactions. Maintain a record of all products you use, including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products, and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Refrain from initiating, discontinuing, or modifying the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s consent.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are consuming other products that induce drowsiness, such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), medications for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).
Review the labels on all your medications (including allergy or cough-and-cold products) as they may contain ingredients causing drowsiness. Consult your pharmacist regarding the safe usage of these products.
Overdose
If someone overdoses and experiences severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, or if a child accidentally ingests this medication, dial 911 immediately. Otherwise, contact a poison control center promptly. Residents in the US can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should contact a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, tremors, seizures, or coma.
Notes:
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, skip the missed one and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Storage:
Keep at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing in the bathroom. Always store benzonatate in a child-resistant container. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Dispose of this product properly when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Conclusion
Benzonatate is a valuable medication used to alleviate and suppress cough symptoms in patients aged ten and above. While it offers relief, it’s essential to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Understanding its potential side effects, interactions, and proper storage methods is crucial for maintaining safety and effectiveness.
If any concerns arise, including symptoms of overdose or accidental ingestion, immediate medical attention or contact with a poison control center is necessary. By adhering to prescribed guidelines and being mindful of its usage, patients can effectively manage cough symptoms while minimizing risks associated with benzonatate.
Reference
1. WebMD – Benzonatate Drug Info: Non‑steroid cough suppressant details
2. MedlinePlus – Benzonatate: Confirms no steroid class; antitussive action
3. Poison.org – Is Benzonatate a Steroid?: “Benzonatate is neither a steroid nor a narcotic drug”
4. Mayo Clinic – Benzonatate (Oral Route): Usage, dosing, swallowing instructions
5. DrugBank – Benzonatate Description: Structural relation to anesthetics, mechanism overview
6. Wikipedia – Benzonatate: Onset, duration, safety, and overdose risks
7. Drugs.com Tips – Patient Guidance: Mechanism explained; antitussive features
8. GoodRx & Optum Perks – Interaction Info: No steroid interactions; watch for CNS depressants
