BENZONATATE (ben ZOE na tate) is used to relieve cough. It works by calming your cough reflex. It belongs to a group of medications called cough suppressants.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Kidney or liver disease
An unusual or allergic reaction to benzonatate, anesthetics, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Avoid breaking, chewing, or sucking the capsule, as this can cause serious side effects. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 10 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
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CHAT NOWWhat may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Confusion
Hallucinations
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Burning or tingling of the tongue, mouth, throat, or face
Dizziness
Drowsiness
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Tell your care team if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse. If you have a high fever, skin rash, or headache, see your care team.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep tightly closed. Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.