Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on April 18, 2025
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request an Online Prescription
Benzonatate is a prescription medication used to relieve coughing. Benzonatate helps numb the throat and lungs, reducing the reflex to cough.
Doctors prescribe benzonatate to alleviate coughs caused by the common cold, asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. It is a non-narcotic cough medication, meaning that it is not generally habit-forming. While benzonatate can help quickly suppress your cough, it does not treat the underlying condition causing the cough.
Benzonatate is used to relieve coughing caused by the common cold or other respiratory conditions like pneumonia or asthma.
Benzonatate belongs to a family of drugs known as antitussives. More commonly known as cough suppressants, these medications numb the respiratory passages and lungs to reduce the cough reflex. This ultimately reduces your urge to cough.
Benzonatate is available as an oral capsule.
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency of use without consulting your provider.
Benzonatate is used to manage cough. The effects can be noticeable within 15 to 20 minutes, and the relief can last for up to 8 hours.
Continue using benzonatate as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. Regular use according to your prescription is crucial for the management of your symptoms.
While benzonatate is primarily used to treat cough, healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for other conditions involving irritation of the respiratory tract.
Discuss any alternative uses of benzonatate with your healthcare provider.
Benzonatate is available in the following dosage forms:
Benzonatate is a prescription medication. You must have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain it.
The use of benzonatate can lead to various side effects in some individuals.
Common mild side effects of benzonatate use include:
More severe side effects include:
If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking benzonatate, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with benzonatate. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with benzonatate.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using benzonatate with your healthcare provider.
Take benzonatate exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
Do not chew, crush, or dissolve benzonatate capsules, as this can cause numbness in the mouth and throat, leading to difficulty swallowing.
Benzonatate can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your symptoms.
In case of a benzonatate overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or numbness in the mouth and throat. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.
Benzonatate is available in the following form:
The typical starting dose of benzonatate varies depending on the severity of the cough and individual patient factors. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
For cough relief:
The dosage may be adjusted based on the response and tolerance to the medication. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history and your response to the medication.
Benzonatate should be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.
If you have any questions about your dosage or need adjustments, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you want to talk to a provider right away, consider scheduling an online doctor appointment through a telehealth platform like Sesame.
If you miss a dose of benzonatate, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Take benzonatate around the same time every day to maintain a consistent amount of medication in your body.
Continue taking benzonatate as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. It's important to keep taking the medication as directed to manage your symptoms effectively.
Do not suddenly stop taking benzonatate without consulting your healthcare provider.
If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider for medical advice and recommendations.
Store benzonatate according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep it at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Do not use expired medication or medications that appear damaged or discolored. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.