Benzonatate Oral Capsule

Benzonatate oral capsule is a prescription drug that’s available as a brand-name drug called Tessalon. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name version.

Benzonatate also comes as an oral perle (smaller capsule).

Why it's used

Benzonatate is used to relieve coughing. It starts working about 15–20 minutes after you swallow it. Its effects last for 3–8 hours.

Benzonatate may be used as part of a combination therapy. This means you may need to take it with other medications.

How it works

Benzonatate belongs to a class of drugs called antitussive agents. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

Benzonatate works by numbing the receptors in your airways that cause you to cough. This makes you cough less after taking the drug.

An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well. To help prevent interactions, your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking.

To find out how benzonatate oral capsule might interact with something else you’re taking, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes benzonatate oral capsule for you.

General

• You can take benzonatate with or without food.
• You should swallow this drug whole. Don’t break, chew, cut, or crush this medication.
• Not every pharmacy stocks this drug. When filling your prescription, be sure to call ahead to make sure your pharmacy carries it.

Storage

• Store benzonatate at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). Keep it as close to 77°F (25°C) as you can.
• Keep this drug away from light.
• Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Refills

A prescription for this medication is refillable. You should not need a new prescription for this medication to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it into a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport x-ray machines. They can’t hurt your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled box with you.
• Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Clinical monitoring

You and your doctor should monitor certain health issues. This can help make sure you stay safe while you take this drug. These issues include:

• Cough. Call your doctor if your cough isn’t getting better.

There are other drugs available to treat your condition. Some may be better suited for you than others. Talk to your doctor about other drug options that may work for you.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.