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What is the Drug Benzonatate Used for?

Mark Halsey
Chief Editor of - Cleanbreak Recovery

Mark Halsey is a licensed therapist, founder, and chief editor of Clean Break Recovery. With over a decade of addiction treatment experience, Mark deeply understands...Read more

Benzonatate is a prescription medication that is used to relieve coughing. It is a central nervous system depressant, meaning it works by slowing down the activity of the brain and nervous system. In this article, we’ll explore what benzonatate is used for, how it works, and possible side effects.

  • How To Take Benzonatate
    • Take Benzonatate exactly as directed by your doctor.
    • Do not take more or less than the dosage prescribed.
    • Take Benzonatate with a full glass of water.
    • Do not chew, break, or open the capsule.
  • Benzonatate Vs Codeine
  • Drug Benzonatate Codeine
    Uses Cough suppressant Pain relief
    Side Effects Dry mouth, nausea, dizziness Drowsiness, nausea, constipation

What is the Drug Benzonatate Used for?

What is Benzonatate Used For?

Benzonatate is an oral medication used to temporarily treat coughing in adults and children 6 years of age and older. This medication is used to relieve coughing and chest congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or flu. It works by numbing the sensation in the lungs so that coughing is reduced. Benzonatate is a non-narcotic, non-addictive cough suppressant.

Benzonatate is available as a capsule or a liquid solution. The capsule is taken orally, and the liquid solution is taken by mouth or by inhalation. The dose for adults and children over 12 years of age is 100 to 200 milligrams (mg) taken three or four times daily. For children 6 to 11 years of age, the dose is 100 mg taken three times daily. The dose should not exceed 600 mg in a 24-hour period.

Uses for Benzonatate

Benzonatate is used to temporarily treat coughing in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is used to relieve coughing and chest congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or flu. Benzonatate works by numbing the sensation in the lungs, which helps reduce coughing.

Benzonatate is available as a capsule or a liquid solution and is taken orally or by inhalation. The dose varies depending on age and is not typically taken more than four times a day. Benzonatate is a non-narcotic, non-addictive cough suppressant.

Side Effects of Benzonatate

Common side effects of Benzonatate include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, or dry mouth. These side effects usually go away after the first few doses. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor.

Less common side effects of Benzonatate include agitation, confusion, difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, feeling shaky, hallucinations, or an irregular heartbeat. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects.

Precautions When Taking Benzonatate

Before taking Benzonatate, talk to your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to medications or foods, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you are taking any other medications.

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Benzonatate will affect you. Do not take more than the recommended dose and do not take Benzonatate for longer than 7 days.

Interactions with Benzonatate

Benzonatate may interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antidepressants, antifungal medications, and blood thinners. Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking before starting Benzonatate.

Storage of Benzonatate

Store Benzonatate at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep Benzonatate out of the reach of children and pets. Do not store Benzonatate in the bathroom.

Related Faq

What is Benzonatate?

Benzonatate is an oral medicine used to temporarily relieve coughing. It is a local anesthetic that numbs the throat and lungs when taken. It is available in the form of a capsule or a liquid suspension. Benzonatate is an over-the-counter medication and is often used to treat coughing that lasts longer than 7 days or is severe.

What are the Side Effects of Benzonatate?

The most common side effects of Benzonatate are nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headache. Less common side effects include confusion, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and changes in heartbeat or heart rate. Serious side effects are rare, but may include an allergic reaction or difficulty breathing due to swelling of the throat.

How Should Benzonatate be Taken?

Benzonatate should be taken with a full glass of water. It is important to follow the directions on the label or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose as this can increase the risk of side effects. Benzonatate should not be taken with alcohol or with other drugs that contain alcohol.

What Precautions Should I Take When Taking Benzonatate?

Before taking Benzonatate, it is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have allergies to any medications. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you are taking any other medications as this can increase the risk of side effects. Do not take Benzonatate if you are taking any other medications that contain anesthetics.

What are Some Alternatives to Benzonatate?

Some alternatives to Benzonatate include using a humidifier or taking a warm shower to soothe a cough, drinking warm liquids to thin mucus, and taking over-the-counter cough medicines. If the cough persists or worsens, it is important to consult with a doctor for further treatment options.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Benzonatate?

If you miss a dose of Benzonatate, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. If you have any questions or concerns, it is important to talk to your doctor.

BENZONATATE medication, What is benzonatate used for, benzonatate pharmacology: side effects, dosage

Benzonatate is a cough suppressant that is used to treat symptoms of a cough caused by the common cold or other upper respiratory infections. It works by numbing the throat and chest to reduce coughing. Benzonatate is a safe and effective medication when used as directed and can help reduce coughing to provide symptom relief. With its fast-acting effects, benzonatate can be an effective treatment for those dealing with a bothersome cough.

Mark Halsey is a licensed therapist, founder, and chief editor of Clean Break Recovery. With over a decade of addiction treatment experience, Mark deeply understands the complex needs of those struggling with addiction and utilizes a comprehensive and holistic approach to address them. He is well-versed in traditional and innovative therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions.

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