Indication

Cough

Adult Dose

Cough\r\n100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg PO q8hr; 600 mg/day maximum

Child Dose

<10 years\r\nSafety and efficacy not established\r\n\r\n>10 years\r\nCough: 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg PO q8hr; 600 mg/day maximum

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to benzonatate and related compounds (tetracaine-type topical anesthetics)

Mode of Action

Nonnarcotic antitussive; local anesthetic effect anesthetizes stretch receptors in respiratory passages and lungs

Precaution

Keep out of reach of children\r\n\r\nSevere hypersensitivity reactions (bronchospasm, cardiovascular collapse) reported with therapy (possibly related to sucking or chewing the capsule)\r\n\r\nDeliberate or accidental overdose has resulted in death, particularly in children\r\n\r\nIsolated cases of abnormal behavior (mental confusion and visual hallucinations) reported\r\n\r\n

Side Effect

Frequency Not Defined\r\nHypersensitivity reaction; bronchospasm, laryngospasm, cardiovascular collapse possibly related to local anesthesia from chewing or sucking the capsule or perle\r\n\r\nChest numbness\r\n\r\nChilly sensation\r\n\r\nConfusion\r\n\r\nConstipation\r\n\r\nDizziness\r\n\r\nGI upset\r\n\r\nHallucinations\r\n\r\nHeadache\r\n\r\nNasal congestion\r\n\r\nNausea\r\n\r\nPruritus\r\n\r\nSedation\r\n\r\nSkin eruptions\r\n\r\n

Pregnancy Category Note

Pregnancy category: C\r\n\r\nLactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use caution