Benzonatate

Generic name: benzonatate
Brand names: Tessalon Perles, Tessalon, Zonatuss
Drug class: Antitussives

Dosage form: Capsule
Root of administraton: Oral
Dose:

• Benzonatate 100 mg capsules
• Benzonatate 150 mg capsules
• Benzonatate 200 mg capsules

Mechanism of action: Benzonatate works by numbing the throat and lungs, making the cough reflex less active.
Drug usage cases: Benzonatate is used to relieve coughing.
Drug contra indications: You should not use this medication if you are allergic to benzonatate or topical numbing medicines such as tetracaine or procaine (found in some insect bite and sunburn creams).

Side effects: Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness or dizziness;
• confusion, hallucinations.
• ongoing numbness or tingling in your mouth, throat, or face;
• numbness in your chest;
• a choking feeling;
• chills; or
• burning in your eyes.

Warnings: Never suck or chew on a benzonatate capsule. Swallow the pill whole. Sucking or chewing the capsule may cause your mouth and throat to feel numb or cause other serious side effects.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.