Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough is an OTC lozenge with benzocaine, dextromethorphan, and menthol. Learn its uses, dosage, cost, and what to know in 2026.
Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough is an over-the-counter sugar-free cherry lozenge that combines benzocaine (6 mg), dextromethorphan HBr (5 mg), and menthol (10 mg) to temporarily relieve sore throat pain and suppress coughs.
It's manufactured by Insight Pharmaceuticals and is part of the Cepastat line of sore throat products. Unlike single-ingredient lozenges, Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough takes a three-pronged approach: it numbs throat tissue, quiets your cough reflex, and provides a cooling menthol sensation—all in one lozenge.
The product comes in 18-count packages and is available without a prescription. However, as we'll discuss below, finding it in stock can be a challenge in 2026.
Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough is indicated for the temporary relief of:
It's important to note that Cepastat provides temporary relief. It's not a cure for the underlying condition causing your sore throat or cough. If symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or are accompanied by fever, headache, rash, or swelling, stop use and see a doctor.
Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough should not be used for:
Using Cepastat is straightforward:
For more on how the ingredients work in your body, see our mechanism of action guide.
Do not use Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough if you:
If you're unsure whether Cepastat is safe for you, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. For a complete list of drug interactions, read our interactions guide.
When you can find it, Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough typically costs $5 to $10 per 18-count package. Since it's an OTC product, insurance generally doesn't cover it—though some FSA and HSA plans may reimburse OTC sore throat products.
There's no manufacturer savings program or patient assistance program for Cepastat, as it's an affordable OTC product. Store-brand alternatives with similar ingredients (benzocaine and menthol lozenges) typically cost $3 to $6.
For tips on saving money, see our guide to coupons and discounts.
Here's the catch: Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough has become increasingly hard to find in retail pharmacies and stores. The brand has had limited distribution for several years.
Your best options for finding it:
If you can't find it, alternatives like Chloraseptic Total and Cepacol Extra Strength contain very similar active ingredients.
Cepastat Sore Throat & Cough is a straightforward OTC lozenge that combines three active ingredients to tackle sore throat pain and cough in one product. It's safe for most adults and children over 6 when used as directed, affordable when you can find it, and doesn't require a prescription.
The main challenge in 2026 is availability. Use Medfinder to track it down, or explore similar products if your local pharmacy doesn't stock it. And if your sore throat or cough lasts more than a week, see a healthcare provider to rule out something more serious.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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