Benzonatate
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Non-narcotic Antitussive
Controlled Drug Substance
No
benzonatate
Summary
Benzonatate is used to relieve cough, which is a common symptom of colds, flu, or other respiratory conditions. It helps manage cough symptoms by reducing the urge to cough.
Benzonatate works by numbing certain areas in the respiratory system, which reduces the cough reflex. This action helps prevent the urge to cough, providing relief from coughing.
The usual dose for adults and children over 10 is 100 mg to 200 mg, taken three times a day as needed. The maximum dose is 600 mg per day. Swallow the capsules whole without crushing or chewing.
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and occur occasionally. If you experience severe symptoms, consult your doctor.
Do not use Benzonatate if allergic to it. Swallow capsules whole to avoid mouth or throat numbness. Keep out of reach of children, as accidental ingestion can be fatal. Seek immediate help for allergic reactions.
Indications and Purpose
How does Benzonatate work?
Benzonatate works by numbing certain areas in the respiratory system, which reduces the cough reflex. It belongs to a class of medications called antitussives. Think of it like a local anesthetic for your throat and lungs. By numbing these areas, Benzonatate helps prevent the urge to cough. This effect makes it helpful for relieving coughs caused by colds, flu, or other respiratory conditions. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using Benzonatate to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Is Benzonatate effective?
Yes, Benzonatate is effective for relieving cough. It works by numbing certain areas in the respiratory system, which reduces the cough reflex. This medication is commonly used to treat coughs caused by colds, flu, or other respiratory conditions. Clinical studies and patient experiences support its effectiveness in providing cough relief. If you have any concerns about how well Benzonatate is working for you, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if this medication is appropriate for your symptoms and suggest alternatives if needed.
What is Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is a medication used to relieve cough. It belongs to a class of drugs called antitussives, which work by numbing certain areas in the respiratory system to reduce the cough reflex. Benzonatate is primarily used to treat coughs caused by colds, flu, or other respiratory conditions. It can be used alone or in combination with other therapies to manage cough symptoms. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using Benzonatate to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is used for short-term relief of cough symptoms. The duration of use depends on the severity and cause of your cough. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding how long to take this medication. If your cough persists or worsens, consult your doctor. They can help determine if you need further treatment or if another underlying condition might be causing your symptoms. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding the use and duration of Benzonatate to ensure safe and effective treatment.
How do I dispose of Benzonatate?
To dispose of Benzonatate, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw Benzonatate in the trash at home. First, take it out of its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take Benzonatate?
Take Benzonatate exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually taken three times a day, with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush, chew, or dissolve them, as this can cause a numbing effect in your mouth or throat. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding the use of Benzonatate.
How long does it take for Benzonatate to start working?
Benzonatate begins working within 15 to 20 minutes after you take it. The medication starts to numb certain areas in the respiratory system, which reduces the cough reflex. You should notice a reduction in your cough symptoms shortly after taking Benzonatate. The full therapeutic effect can vary depending on the severity of your cough and individual factors. If you don't notice improvement or if your symptoms worsen, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if Benzonatate is the right medication for you or if another treatment might be needed.
How should I store Benzonatate?
Store Benzonatate at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always keep Benzonatate out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. Follow these storage guidelines to ensure the medication remains effective.
What is the usual dose of Benzonatate?
The usual dose of Benzonatate for adults and children over 10 years old is 100 mg to 200 mg taken three times a day as needed for cough. The maximum recommended dose is 600 mg per day. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions. Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as taking too much Benzonatate can lead to serious side effects. If you have any questions about your dosage or how to take this medication, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Benzonatate be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of Benzonatate while breastfeeding is not well-established. There is limited information on whether this medication passes into breast milk. If you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, discuss your treatment options with your doctor. They can help determine the safest approach for managing your cough symptoms while nursing. Always inform your healthcare provider about your breastfeeding status before starting any medication. Follow your doctor's advice to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.
Can Benzonatate be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Benzonatate during pregnancy is not well-established. There is limited information on its effects in pregnant women. It's important to weigh the potential benefits and risks with your doctor. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss your cough treatment options with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the safest approach for managing your symptoms during pregnancy. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding medication use while pregnant.
Can I take Benzonatate with other prescription drugs?
Benzonatate has no major drug interactions, but it can interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or certain pain relievers. Combining these can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. They can help identify potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Follow your doctor's advice to ensure safe and effective use of Benzonatate.
Does Benzonatate have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions that can occur with medication use. With Benzonatate, common adverse effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and occur occasionally. Serious adverse effects, such as allergic reactions or numbness in the mouth or throat, are rare but require immediate medical attention. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Benzonatate, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication and advise on the best course of action.
Does Benzonatate have any safety warnings?
Yes, Benzonatate has important safety warnings. It can cause serious side effects if not taken as directed. Swallow the capsules whole to avoid a numbing effect in your mouth or throat, which can lead to choking. Keep this medication out of reach of children, as accidental ingestion can be fatal. If you experience numbness in your mouth or throat, difficulty breathing, or any signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical help immediately. Always follow your doctor's instructions and read the medication guide provided with your prescription.
Is Benzonatate addictive?
Benzonatate is not considered addictive or habit-forming. It doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Benzonatate works by numbing certain areas in the respiratory system to reduce the cough reflex. This mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Benzonatate doesn't carry this risk while managing your cough symptoms. Always use this medication as directed by your healthcare provider.
Is Benzonatate safe for the elderly?
Benzonatate is generally safe for elderly patients, but they may be more sensitive to its side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness. These effects can increase the risk of falls or accidents. It's important for elderly patients to use Benzonatate as directed and to be cautious when performing activities that require alertness. If you have concerns about using Benzonatate as an older adult, discuss them with your doctor. They can provide guidance on safe use and monitor for any adverse effects.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Benzonatate?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Benzonatate. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which are also potential effects of Benzonatate. Combining the two can make these symptoms worse and impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be aware of how your body responds. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Benzonatate to get personalized advice based on your health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Benzonatate?
Yes, you can exercise while taking Benzonatate, but be mindful of how your body feels. Benzonatate can cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people, which might affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these symptoms, avoid strenuous activities or high-impact sports until you know how the medication affects you. Listen to your body and take breaks if needed. If you have any concerns about exercising while taking Benzonatate, talk with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your health situation.
Is it safe to stop Benzonatate?
Yes, it's generally safe to stop taking Benzonatate when you no longer need it for cough relief. Benzonatate is used for short-term relief of cough symptoms and doesn't cause withdrawal symptoms. However, if your cough persists or worsens, consult your doctor. They can help determine if you need further treatment or if another underlying condition might be causing your symptoms. Always follow your doctor's advice regarding the use and discontinuation of Benzonatate.
What are the most common side effects of Benzonatate?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. With Benzonatate, common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and occur occasionally. If you notice new symptoms after starting Benzonatate, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if your symptoms are related to Benzonatate or if there might be another cause. Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking this medication.
Who should avoid taking Benzonatate?
Benzonatate should not be used if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Benzonatate is not recommended for children under 10 years old due to the risk of serious side effects. Always inform your doctor about any allergies or medical conditions before starting Benzonatate. They can help determine if this medication is safe for you and provide guidance on its use.
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