Benzonatate is indicated for the symptomatic relief of cough.

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic antitussive agent used for the treatment of cough symptoms.

Benzonatate acts peripherally by anesthetizing the stretch receptors in the respiratory tract, lungs, and pleura. This reduces their activity and suppresses the cough reflex at its origin. The onset of action occurs within 15 to 20 minutes, and the duration of effect typically lasts between 3 to 8 hours.

Adults and Children (10 years and older): Benzonatate 100 mg capsule three times a day. If necessary to control cough, up to 600 mg daily in three divided doses may be given. Benzonatate should be swallowed whole. Benzonatate should not to be broken, chewed, dissolved, cut or crushed.

Benzonatate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any of the excipients.

Hypersensitivity reactions: Bronchospasm, Laryngospasm

• Central Nervous System: Sedation, Headache, Dizziness
• Gastrointestinal: Constipation, Nausea
• Dermatologic: Itching (pruritus), Skin rash
• Other: Nasal congestion, Burning sensation in the eyes

Animal studies have not been conducted to assess the safety of benzonatate during pregnancy. It is unknown whether this drug can cause harm to the fetus or affect reproductive capacity. Therefore, it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary. It is not known whether benzonatate is excreted in human breast milk. As many drugs are excreted in breast milk, caution should be exercised when administered to nursing mothers.

Psychiatric effects: Rare cases of unusual behavior, mental confusion, and visual hallucinations have been reported, especially when used with other medications.

Accidental ingestion in children: Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Accidental ingestion has resulted in fatal outcomes in children under 10 years of age.

Benzonatate is structurally related to para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) class anesthetics (e.g., procaine, tetracaine) and may be associated with central nervous system side effects.

Signs and symptoms: Symptoms of overdose may appear within 15–20 minutes. Chewing or dissolving the capsule in the mouth may cause rapid oropharyngeal anesthesia, leading to choking or airway obstruction.

Treatment: In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Gastric evacuation and administration of activated charcoal may be required.

Cough suppressant.

Store below 25°C in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.