Tussilon

Indications

Benzonatate is used for short-term relief of a dry, irritating cough caused by colds, flu or other minor throat and airway irritation. It eases the cough but does not treat the underlying cause.

How It Works

Benzonatate is chemically related to local anaesthetics such as Tetracaine. After it is absorbed, it numbs the stretch receptors in the airways and lungs that trigger the cough reflex, so fewer cough signals reach the brain. It is not an opioid.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children over 10 years: the usual dose is 100 to 200 mg by mouth three times a day as needed. Do not take more than 600 mg in a day. Swallow the capsule whole with water. Never chew, suck, break or dissolve it, because the contents numb the mouth and throat and can cause choking.

Interactions

Few interactions are known. Alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives, sleeping tablets, some antihistamines and opioid pain medicines, may add to drowsiness or dizziness. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

Contraindications

Do not use Benzonatate if you are allergic to it or to related local anaesthetics such as Procaine or Tetracaine. It must not be given to children under 10 years of age.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include:

• Drowsiness, dizziness or headache
• Nausea, stomach upset or constipation
• Stuffy nose, burning eyes or a feeling of chill
• Itching, rash or numbness in the chest

Get urgent medical help for choking or a numb, tight throat, confusion or hallucinations, severe dizziness, fits, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is limited information on use in pregnancy, so use it only if your doctor decides it is clearly needed. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

See a doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, keeps coming back, or comes with high fever, rash, persistent headache, coughing up blood, or breathlessness. A cough that brings up a lot of mucus may need different treatment. Benzonatate may cause drowsiness; take care when driving. Keep capsules well away from children: even one or two capsules can be very dangerous for a young child.

Overdose

Overdose can cause restlessness, tremor, fits, loss of consciousness and heart rhythm problems, which may start within 15 to 20 minutes. Accidental swallowing by a child is a medical emergency; seek emergency care at once.

Therapeutic Class

Antitussive (non-opioid, peripherally acting cough suppressant).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and well out of the reach of children.