Cough suppressants help to stop the cough reflex and are good options for dry coughs. They do not treat the underlying reason for coughing but provide relief so you can rest.

Cough suppressants include both prescription and over-the-counter options. Dextromethorphan is available over the counter and is found in products like Delsym or Robitussin.

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic prescription option for suppressing cough. It numbs the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways to prevent coughing. It starts to work in about 20 minutes and can last up to eight hours.

You can purchase benzonatate at most pharmacies with a valid prescription. You can get a prescription after an appointment with a Sesame provider.

In need of a prescription? Book a same-day appointment so you can get relief ASAP.

Taking benzonatate with other medications can increase the risk of side effects. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements.

Benzonatate can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so you should avoid taking it with other medications that can cause these side effects. These medications include:

• Opioid pain relievers
• Sleep aids
• Muscle relaxers
• Seizure medications
• Antihistamines
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Alcohol

While rare, benzonatate can cause hallucinations, mental confusion, and strange behavior. Avoid taking benzonatate if you take antipsychotic medication.

Benzonatate can be given to children over the age of 10 only if they can properly swallow medication and it has been prescribed to them by a licensed provider.

Accidental ingestion of benzonatate has resulted in death in children under the age of 10. Symptoms of overdose can occur in as little as 15 minutes. Seek immediate medical care for accidental ingestion or for symptoms of overdose.

Benzonatate should only be used for dry, hacking coughs. Benzonatate will not help congestion or wet coughs. In fact, if you have a wet cough, it is helpful to cough, as this can bring up mucus and can help clear the airway.

For wet, productive coughs, expectorants that contain guaifenesin are helpful. They can help thin the mucus and make it easier to cough up.

Benzonatate may not be safe for everyone. If any of the following apply, it is best to avoid benzonatate:

• Children under the age of 10
• Allergies to ester-type local anesthetics
• PABA allergy
• Paraben hypersensitivity
• Trouble swallowing
• Wet cough
• Chronic cough
• Taking medications that cause drowsiness

It is not known if benzonatate is safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and it should be avoided. Your provider can recommend alternative treatments if you have a severe cough during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Benzonatate can be taken up to three times a day, as needed for coughing. It may be taken with or without food. If benzonatate causes nausea or stomach upset, taking it with food may help.

The capsules should be swallowed whole and should never be chewed, sucked, or allowed to dissolve in the mouth.

No, benzonatate—commonly known by the brand name Tessalon Perles or referred to as cough pearls—is only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider.

If you are looking for a benzonatate prescription, book an online appointment with a Sesame provider. Appointments are available 24/7 in all 50 states. If approved, your prescription can be sent to a local pharmacy for same-day pickup.

The cost of benzonatate will vary depending on whether you are using insurance or paying cash. It will also vary depending on the pharmacy, location, quantity, and strength of benzonatate.

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