What is Benzonatate: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Follow all instructions from the healthcare provider, pharmacist, or medication label when taking benzonatate.

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often.

Do not exceed the prescribed dose. 

Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, bite, or suck on the capsule.

Store benzonatate at room temperature (68°–77°F) protected from light.

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.

You should not take two doses at the same time.

This medicine is not right for everyone. 

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to benzonatate in the past.

Tell any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.

Do not crush, chew, bite, or suck on the capsule. Doing so can quickly numb the mouth and throat, cause difficulty swallowing, and create a choking hazard. It can also cause severe hypersensitivity reactions such as inability to breathe or severely low blood pressure.

If tingling or numbness is felt in the mouth, throat, or face, do not eat or drink until the numbness stops. If the numbness doesn’t go away, get emergency medical attention.

Benzonatate is not recommended for children younger than 10 years old.

Young children have died when they have accidentally ingested benzonatate capsules. Always store this medication in a child-resistant container out of the reach of children at all times.

There are no reported drug interactions with benzonatate.

However, always tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements you are using before taking benzonatate.

Tell other healthcare providers you are using this medicine before they prescribe new medications.