Cough medicine is prescribed for alleviating coughs stemming from the common cold and various respiratory issues like pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. Its mechanism involves diminishing the lung reflex responsible for triggering coughing sensations. It's advisable to refrain from administering this medication to children under the age of 10. It's crucial to have a conversation with your doctor regarding the potential advantages and drawbacks.
How to use Tessalon PERLE
Take this medication orally, either with or without food, according to your doctor's instructions, typically three times daily as necessary.
Swallow the medication whole; avoid chewing, sucking, or dissolving it in your mouth. Such actions can cause loss of sensation in your mouth/throat and may lead to choking or severe allergic reactions (refer also to the Side Effects section). Refrain from eating or drinking until the numbness subsides. Seek immediate medical assistance if the numbness persists or worsens.
The prescribed dosage depends on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as doing so will not expedite relief from your cough but might 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. Should 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 encounter serious side effects.
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any severe side effects, such as changes in mental or mood, loss of sensation in the chest, or burning in the eyes.
While very rare, a severe allergic reaction to this drug could occur. Chewing, sucking, or dissolving the medication in your mouth may increase the likelihood of an allergic reaction. Seek medical assistance right away if you observe symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, or fainting.
This list does not encompass all potential side effects. If you notice any other effects not mentioned here, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Read Also: Hospital Medication Errors: A Pill-by-Pill Account of Legal Remedies Available to Victims
Precautions
Before taking benzonatate, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to it, certain anesthetic agents like procaine or tetracaine, or any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues. Consult your pharmacist for more information.
Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) may intensify these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in tasks requiring alertness until you can do so safely. Limit alcohol consumption. Speak with your doctor if you use marijuana (cannabis).
Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, 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.
Pros and Cons of pearl for coughing
Pros:
- Effective Cough Relief
- Ease of Administration
- Minimal Side Effects
Cons:
- Risk of Side Effects
- Potential Drug Interactions
- Risk of Overdose
Differences Between pearl for coughing and m366 white tablet
Pearls for coughing:
Pearls like benzonatate are specifically designed to alleviate coughing associated with respiratory conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
M366 white tablets:
M366 white tablets are primarily prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain, such as that caused by dental procedures, injury, or surgery. They may also be used as a cough suppressant due to the presence of hydrocodone.
Alternative to pearl for coughing
Guaifenesin:
This expectorant helps loosen and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. It is often found in cough syrups and expectorant formulations.
Interactions
Drug interactions have the potential to alter how your medications function or increase the risk of serious side effects. This document does not encompass all conceivable drug interactions. Maintain a record of all the products you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as herbal supplements, and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Refrain from starting, stopping, or adjusting the dosage of any medicines without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are using other products that induce drowsiness, such as opioid pain or cough medications (like codeine or hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), medications for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (like carisoprodol or cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine or diphenhydramine).
Carefully review the labels of all your medications, including allergy or cough-and-cold products, as they might contain ingredients that induce drowsiness. Consult your pharmacist to learn how to use those products safely.
Overdose
If someone overdoses and experiences severe symptoms like loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, or if a child accidentally ingests this medication, call 911 immediately. Otherwise, contact a poison control center right away. In the United States, residents can reach their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call a provincial poison control center. Overdose symptoms 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 catch up.
Storage:
Keep benzonatate at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Always use a child-resistant container for benzonatate and store it out of reach of children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or 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 for guidance.
Conclusion
Benzonatate is a medication prescribed for cough relief associated with various respiratory conditions. It's essential to take it as directed by your healthcare provider and to be mindful of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. In case of overdose or accidental ingestion, prompt medical attention is crucial. Remember not to share this medication with others, and always store it safely out of reach of children and pets. Proper disposal of expired or unused medication is also important for maintaining a safe environment. By following these guidelines, you can use benzonatate effectively and responsibly for managing cough symptoms.