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Benzonatate: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Benzonatate is FDA-approved for the symptomatic relief of cough in adults and children older than 10 years of age.

Forms:Capsule

About Benzonatate

Indications of Benzonatate

Benzonatate is FDA-approved for the symptomatic relief of cough in adults and children older than 10 years of age.

  • Established/FDA-approved use: Short-term relief of non-productive cough due to minor upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., the common cold), and cough associated with bronchitis, pneumonia, or other conditions where cough suppression is clinically appropriate.
  • Off-label use (not FDA-approved): Benzonatate is sometimes used off-label to suppress the gag reflex before upper endoscopy, transesophageal echocardiography, or dental procedures; evidence supporting this use is limited and it should be used this way only at a physician's discretion.

Benzonatate relieves only the symptom of cough; it does not treat the underlying cause. A cough that is persistent, severe, worsening, or accompanied by fever, rash, or difficulty breathing should be evaluated by a physician.

Dosage & Administration of Benzonatate

Adult and Pediatric Dosing

PopulationRecommended Dose of Benzonatate
Adults and children older than 10 years100 mg to 200 mg orally three times a day as needed; maximum 600 mg per day
Children 10 years of age or youngerContraindicated (see Contraindications)

Capsules of Benzonatate must be swallowed whole. Do not chew, crush, dissolve, or suck on the capsule, as this can release the drug in the mouth and throat and cause local numbness, a choking sensation, or aspiration.

Side Effects of Benzonatate

Common side effects of Benzonatate:

  • Dizziness and sedation/drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Nausea, mild gastrointestinal upset, constipation
  • Nasal congestion
  • Pruritus or skin rash

Less common or serious side effects of Benzonatate:

  • Sensation of chest numbness or tightness
  • Hypersensitivity reactions, including bronchospasm or laryngospasm (more likely if the capsule is chewed or punctured)
  • Mental confusion or visual hallucinations, particularly in elderly patients
  • Cardiovascular collapse and cardiac arrhythmia (reported in overdose — see Overdose)

Contraindications of Benzonatate

  • Known hypersensitivity to Benzonatate or to chemically related local anesthetics (e.g., tetracaine), due to potential cross-reactivity.
  • Children 10 years of age or younger, in whom safety and efficacy of Benzonatate have not been established and for whom serious, sometimes fatal, overdose has been reported after accidental ingestion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Benzonatate

What is Benzonatate used for?

Benzonatate is used for the short-term, symptomatic relief of cough, such as cough due to a cold, bronchitis, or other minor respiratory infections. It relieves the symptom of cough but does not treat its underlying cause.

How should I take Benzonatate?

Benzonatate capsules must be swallowed whole with water. Do not chew, crush, break, or suck on the capsule, as this can numb your mouth and throat and cause choking. The usual dose for adults and children over 10 years is 100 mg to 200 mg three times a day as needed, up to a maximum of 600 mg per day, or as directed by your physician.

Can children take Benzonatate?

No. Benzonatate is contraindicated in children 10 years of age or younger. Serious and sometimes fatal poisoning has occurred when young children accidentally swallowed even one capsule. Always store Benzonatate out of the sight and reach of children.

Is it safe to take Benzonatate during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Benzonatate has not been well studied in pregnancy or breastfeeding. It should be used only if clearly needed and if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk; always consult your physician before using Benzonatate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What should I do if someone accidentally swallows Benzonatate?

Accidental ingestion of Benzonatate, especially by a child, is a medical emergency. Symptoms can begin within 15 to 20 minutes and may be life-threatening, including seizures, loss of consciousness, and cardiac arrest. Seek immediate emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center right away; do not wait for symptoms to appear.

What are the common side effects of Benzonatate?

Common side effects of Benzonatate include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, mild nausea, and constipation. Less commonly, it can cause a sensation of chest numbness, skin rash, or (particularly in the elderly) confusion or hallucinations. Contact your physician if side effects are severe or persistent.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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