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Benzonatate

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(ben zoe' na tate)

Brand name(s): Tessalon Perles

Contents of this page:

Why is this medication prescribed?

Benzonatate is used to treat cough due to the common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, or other lung infections. It also is used for cough from chronic conditions, such as asthma.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?

Benzonatate comes as a liquid-filled capsule (perle) to take by mouth. It usually is taken three times a day, but your doctor may tell you to take this drug up to six times per day. The capsule should not be chewed, crushed, or allowed to dissolve in your mouth. The liquid inside may make your mouth numb, which can lead to choking and/or an allergic reaction. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take benzonatate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking benzonatate,

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Benzonatate may cause an upset stomach. Take benzonatate with food or milk.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Although side effects from benzonatate are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Last Revised - 01/01/2003


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The MedMaster™ Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.