Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles): What Is It Used For?
Quick summary: Benzonatate is a prescription cough medicine used to help relieve cough. In the U.S., it is sold under brand names such as Tessalon Perles and Tessalon. This article summarizes the original product...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: Benzonatate is a prescription cough medicine used to help relieve cough. In the U.S., it is sold under brand names such as Tessalon Perles and Tessalon.
This article summarizes the original product information and highlights the main safety points to review with a clinician or pharmacist.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for general information only and does not replace the official FDA medication guide, a pharmacist’s advice, or care from a licensed clinician. Do not use this page to self-diagnose or to change any medicine on your own.
What is benzonatate?
Benzonatate is a medicine used to treat cough. It is known in the United States by brand names including Tessalon Perles and Tessalon.
The original content describes benzonatate as a cough suppressant with both central and peripheral action, and notes local anesthetic activity on the mucous membranes during oral administration.
What is benzonatate used for?
The original source lists benzonatate for dry irritative cough and cough associated with several respiratory conditions, including:
- Bronchitis
- Common cold
- Acute pneumonia
- Chronic respiratory disease such as emphysema and bronchial asthma
- Pleuritis
- Pulmonary tuberculosis
- Pneumoconiosis
- Respiratory tract tumors
The source also mentions use in isolated cases of refractory hypoxia.
How benzonatate works
Benzonatate is described as a cough suppressant. According to the original content, it has both central and peripheral action and local anesthetic activity on the mucous membranes after oral administration.
If you want the exact mechanism described for your product, check the official package insert or FDA medication guide, since formulations and labeling details can vary.
Dosage information from the original content
The original content includes the following dosing information. This should be verified against the official label and a healthcare professional’s instructions before use.
| Route | Age group | Original content |
|---|---|---|
| Oral | Adults and children over 10 years | 100 mg every 8 hours; if necessary, up to every 4 hours, maximum 600 mg/day |
| Rectal | Children 6 to 10 years | 1 suppository of 50 mg every 8 hours |
| Rectal | Adults and children over 6 years | 1 suppository of 100 mg every 8 hours |
Important: The original content also states that safety and efficacy in children under 10 years have not been established and that use is not recommended in that age group.
Who should not use benzonatate?
The original content lists the following contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to benzonatate
- Hypersensitivity to related substances, including procaine-type local anesthetics
- Children under 6 years old
Warnings and precautions
The source highlights caution in the following situations:
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Children under 10 years, because safety and efficacy have not been established
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the official label and a clinician can help you weigh the available information for your situation.
Drug interactions
The original content notes that frequent use of this medicine may enhance the effects of CNS depressant medications.
If you take any medicine that can cause drowsiness or affect the central nervous system, ask a pharmacist or clinician to review your full medication list.
Possible side effects
The original content lists the following adverse reactions:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Nasal congestion
- Itching
- Rash
- Hypersensitivity
- Numbness of the mouth, tongue, and pharynx
If you notice a reaction that seems severe or unusual, seek medical advice promptly.
What to check in the FDA medication guide
The original source recommends consulting the FDA-authorized medication guide for detailed, official information. Before using benzonatate, it is sensible to verify:
- The exact product name and formulation
- The labeled age limits
- The dosing instructions on your specific package
- Warnings related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and other medicines
- What to do if a dose is missed or if side effects occur
Safety reminder
Always follow the instructions on the prescription label and the official medication guide. If a cough is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, speak with a healthcare professional rather than relying on self-treatment.
FAQs about benzonatate
▸ Is benzonatate the same as Tessalon Perles?
The original content identifies Tessalon Perles and Tessalon as U.S. brand names for benzonatate.
▸ What type of cough is benzonatate used for?
The source describes it for dry irritative cough and cough associated with several respiratory conditions.
▸ Can children use benzonatate?
The original content says it is contraindicated in children under 6 years old and that safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 10 years.
▸ What side effects are listed in the original content?
Headache, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbances, nasal congestion, itching, rash, hypersensitivity, and numbness of the mouth, tongue, and pharynx.
▸ Should pregnancy or breastfeeding be discussed first?
Yes. The original content advises caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
▸ Where can I verify the official information?
The FDA medication guide and the product’s official labeling are the best places to confirm the exact instructions and warnings.
Sources and reference links
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.