Benzonatate
TESSALON
What it isPeripheral antitussive that anesthetizes airway stretch receptors; symptomatic treatment of cough.
Why this oneIt suppresses cough without opioid dependence or routine sedation, but benefit is often modest.
What limits it⚑ Swallow capsules whole: chewing can anesthetize the mouth and compromise the airway. Small pediatric overdoses can be rapidly fatal.
FDA-approved for
- cough (1958)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cough (symptomatic relief) | Adults & children >10 yr | 100-200 mg TID PRN | 100-200 mg TID PRN | 600 mg/day in 3 divided doses |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Swallow capsule whole; do not break, chew, dissolve, cut, or crush (risk of oropharyngeal anesthesia, laryngospasm, cardiovascular collapse)
Cautions
- Severe hypersensitivity reactions (bronchospasm, laryngospasm, cardiovascular collapse) possible if chewed/sucked
- Accidental or intentional overdose can be fatal, particularly in children
Adverse reactions
- CNS: sedation, headache, dizziness, mental confusion, visual hallucinations
- GI: constipation, nausea, GI upset
- Hypersensitivity, pruritus, skin eruptions
- Nasal congestion, burning eyes, numbness of chest
Pregnancy Category C — animal studies not conducted; use only if clearly needed
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskFatal in overdose in children; never chew the capsule
Cost, est. cash$10–$300/month
Generic entry1993
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryUnknown / historical label unavailable
Defining liabilityGenerally tolerated at therapeutic doses; clinically important risks are agent-specific and increase with interactions or organ impairment.
Mechanism of action: Benzonatate ballicule
