Benzonatate
Benzonatate is an antitussive medication used to relieve coughing. It works by numbing the throat and lungs, decreasing the cough reflex. This medication is typically prescribed for symptomatic relief of coughs associated with respiratory conditions.
Benzonatate is a cough suppressant that works by numbing the respiratory tract to reduce coughing.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R05DB01
- RxNorm
- 18993
- Generic
- Benzonatate
- Class
- atc-r05
- Brands
- Tessalon Perles
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 100mg three times daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 8 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 100mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 100mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if clearly needed
regular prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid close to delivery
avoid use near term unless benefits outweigh risks
fetal monitoring close to delivery
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid or discontinue breastfeeding
not recommended during breastfeeding due to unknown excretion in breast milk
monitor infant for excessive drowsiness or feeding problems
pediatric_age
under 10 yearsdo not use
contraindicated in children under 10 years due to risk of severe adverse reactions including fatal respiratory depression
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
10 to 18 yearsuse with caution
use only under healthcare provider supervision, do not exceed recommended dose
monitor for adverse reactions
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlystart with lower dose
use with caution, monitor for excessive drowsiness and respiratory depression
monitor for sedation and respiratory changes
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno specific adjustment needed
use with caution, monitor renal function
monitor renal function periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno specific adjustment needed
use with caution, monitor liver function
monitor liver function periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Benzonatate is classified as a cough suppressant (antitussive)
Common uses
Used for symptomatic relief of cough associated with respiratory conditions
Mechanism of action
Peripheral antitussive action by anesthetizing stretch receptors
Dosage form
Available in 100mg soft gelatin capsule form
Used to control cough associated with various respiratory conditions, including the common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections where coughing is a prominent symptom.
Benzonatate is a benzonatate analog of tetracaine that acts as a local anesthetic. It suppresses the cough reflex by numbing the stretch receptors in the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli of the lungs, reducing the frequency and intensity of coughing.
Benzonatate should be swallowed whole without chewing or sucking, as contact with the oral mucosa can cause numbness and potential adverse effects. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, and GI upset. Rare but serious adverse reactions such as bronchospasm and allergic reactions have been reported. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before use, particularly if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy