Why is this medication prescribed?

Benzonatate is a medication primarily prescribed to relieve cough caused by the common cold, bronchitis, or other respiratory tract illnesses. It works by numbing the throat and lungs, reducing the cough reflex.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how benzonatate should typically be used:

• Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the ones on the prescription label.
• Swallow the capsules whole and do not crush, chew, or dissolve them in your mouth. Doing so can lead to serious side effects or overdose.
• You can take benzonatate with or without food, but it’s essential to take it with a full glass of water.
• Take benzonatate as prescribed, usually every 4 to 6 hours as needed for cough relief.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of administration without consulting your healthcare provider.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Store benzonatate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Remember, benzonatate is for temporary relief of cough symptoms and should not be used for chronic cough or coughs caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema without consulting a healthcare professional. If your cough persists or worsens, or if you experience any concerning side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

Benzonatate is primarily used to relieve cough symptoms associated with respiratory tract infections like the common cold or bronchitis. However, it is occasionally used off-label for other purposes, including:

• Chronic cough: In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe benzonatate for chronic cough, although its effectiveness for this purpose is not well-established.
• Postoperative cough: Benzonatate may be used to manage coughing after certain surgical procedures, particularly those involving the chest or upper respiratory tract.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions, consider the following:

• Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to local anesthetics like procaine or tetracaine, as you may also be allergic to benzonatate.
• Swallowing: Be cautious when swallowing benzonatate capsules, as chewing or sucking on them can cause rapid release of the medication, leading to numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat, which can be dangerous.
• Children: Benzonatate should not be used in children under 10 years old due to the risk of serious side effects, including accidental ingestion leading to overdose.
• Respiratory depression: Benzonatate may cause respiratory depression, especially in high doses or in individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions. Use caution, especially in patients with asthma, emphysema, or other respiratory disorders.
• Alcohol and sedatives: Avoid consuming alcohol or taking sedative medications while using benzonatate, as it may increase the risk of respiratory depression and other central nervous system effects.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your healthcare provider before using benzonatate if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of the medication in these situations is not well-established.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when using benzonatate or any other medication, and report any unusual or concerning symptoms promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

As for special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with benzonatate. However, it’s essential to follow a balanced diet and stay hydrated, especially if you’re dealing with a respiratory illness.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of benzonatate, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Benzonatate, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Numbness or tingling in the mouth or throat: This is one of the most common side effects and occurs when the medication is chewed or sucked on instead of swallowed whole.
• Drowsiness or dizziness: Benzonatate may cause drowsiness or dizziness, especially at higher doses or when combined with other medications that have similar effects.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking benzonatate.
• Constipation: Benzonatate can sometimes cause constipation as a side effect.
• Nausea or upset stomach: Some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea or upset stomach.
• Skin rash or itching: Allergic reactions to benzonatate can manifest as skin rash or itching in some individuals.
• Serious side effects: While rare, benzonatate can cause more severe side effects such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider, especially if they are persistent or severe. If you have concerns about side effects or notice any unusual symptoms while taking benzonatate, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of benzonatate:

• Storage: Keep benzonatate capsules at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store them in a tightly closed container, out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired benzonatate properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or others. You can ask your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about the best way to dispose of medications safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek immediate medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, or confusion, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
• Poison control: You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in case of overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid alcohol and sedatives: Benzonatate can cause drowsiness or dizziness, so it’s essential to avoid consuming alcohol or taking sedative medications while using this medication.
• Do not chew or suck on capsules: Swallow benzonatate capsules whole to prevent rapid release of the medication, which can lead to numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat.
• Keep appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider while taking benzonatate to monitor your progress and any potential side effects.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure to inform any healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking benzonatate, including dentists and pharmacists, as it may interact with other medications or procedures.

Following these guidelines can help ensure the safe and effective use of benzonatate and minimize the risk of adverse effects or complications.