What is Benzonatate?
Overview of the Medication
Benzonatate is an antitussive agent, this in simple terms means that it is used to manage cough in the coughing patient but not the nasal or respiratory cough. It is used in a different way to calm the reflex that is causing a patient to cough and will be applied directly into the capsule. It is an option for those patients who need rapid relief of cough.
How Benzonatate Works
We can consider it as similar to wearing an armor for throat and lungs. It opposes the stretch receptors in respiratory tract; this ensures that the desire to cough is reduced. This makes it very useful for warding off dry and irritating coughs that just won’t quit.
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Common Uses of Benzonatate
Treatment of Cough and Associated Symptoms
Doctors typically prescribe Benzonatate as a medication for coughs due to flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia. It does not treat these infections but provides the needed relief: the patient can stay in bed and recover.
Examples of Situations Where Benzonatate Can Be Prescribed
Benzonatate can also be used after a surgical procedure or in the case of an ongoing cough that is disrupting regular activities. Since it is very flexible, benzonatate can thus be used in relatively many medical conditions, particularly when symptomatic relief from over-the-counter medication is not provided.
General Dosage Recommendations for Benzonatate
The typical dosage for adults and children over 10 years old is 100-200 mg, taken up to three times a day. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid exceeding the prescribed amount.
Adjustments in Special Population
The dosage may be adjusted in younger patients or special cases of health disorders. Consult a healthcare provider about whether it is safe and effective for your needs.
Possible Adverse Effects of Benzonatate
Common Side Effects
Like any medication, Benzonatate has potential adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and a slight headache. These are usually temporary as your body adjusts to it.
Serious Side Effects to Watch For
Although this is not likely to happen to many patients, a few can develop severe allergic reactions or difficulty breathing and confusion. In such cases, it is necessary to cease your dosage of this drug and visit your doctor immediately.
Other Prescription Drugs
In case Benzonatate is not your drug, then there are other prescription drugs in the form of codeine-based cough suppressant. However, these can only be taken for more serious cases but with warnings of their own.
Home Remedies for Cough
You don’t necessarily have to pop meds if you don’t feel like it. Depending on what caused your coughing, you could just opt for honey, ginger tea, or even steam inhalation. These aren’t anything like Benzonatate, but for a light cough, they should do the trick.
