Benzonatate 

Why is Benzonatate  prescribed?

Tessalon is taken for relief of a cough. 

Most important fact about Benzonatate

Tessalon  should be swallowed whole, not chewed. 

How should you take Benzonatate? 

Tessalon perles (soft  capsule form) should be swallowed whole. If chewed, they can produce  a temporary numbness of  the mouth  and throat that could cause choking  or a severe allergic reaction. 

• If you miss a dose...Take  the forgotten dose as soon as you remember.  If it  is almost time  for your next dose, skip  the one you missed  and go back  to your regular schedule. Never double  the dose. 
  

• Storage instructions...Store Tessalon at room temperature. 
  

What side effects may occur? 

Side effects cannot be anticipated.  If any occur  or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it  is safe to continue taking Tessalon. 

Side effects  may include:
Allergic reactions, burning sensation in the eyes, constipation, dizziness, extreme calm (sedation), headache, itching, mental confusion, nausea, numbness in chest, skin eruptions, stuffy nose, upset stomach, vague "chilly" feeling, visual hallucinations 

Why should Benzonatate not be prescribed? 

Tessalon should not be used if  you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to benzonatate or similar drugs (such as local anesthetics). 

Special warnings about Benzonatate 

Remember to swallow Tessalon perles whole. 

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Benzonatate 

There have been rare occurrences of bizarre behavior, including confusion and visual hallucinations, when Tessalon is taken with  other prescribed drugs. Check  with your doctor before taking Tessalon with other medications. 

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding 

The effects of Tessalon during pregnancy have  not been studied adequately. Tessalon should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify  your doctor immediately. It is unknown if Tessalon appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Benzonatate is essential to  your health, your doctor may advise  you to stop breastfeeding until  your treatment with Tessalon ends. 

Recommended dosage for Benzonatate 

CHILDREN OVER AGE 10 AND 

ADULTS

The usual dose is a 100-milligram perle 3 times per day, as needed. The maximum dose is 600 milligrams, or 6 perles, a day. 

Overdosage

If capsules are chewed or allowed to dissolve in the mouth, numbness of the mouth and throat will develop rapidly. Symptoms of restlessness and tremors may be followed by convulsions. 

If you suspect a Tessalon overdose, seek medical attention immediately. 

Notes: DrJMinor

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EditText of this page (last edited December 19, 2009)