Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Benzonatate is a non-narcotic antitussive (cough suppressant) used to relieve coughs caused by colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory conditions. It was first approved by the FDA in 1958 and has been a staple cough treatment for decades. Unlike opioid-based cough suppressants like codeine, Benzonatate is not a controlled substance and does not carry the same risk of addiction or respiratory depression.
The brand-name version is Tessalon Perles, though most prescriptions today are filled with the generic version, which is significantly more affordable.
Benzonatate works by numbing (anesthetizing) the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways. These receptors are responsible for triggering the cough reflex. By reducing the sensitivity of these receptors, Benzonatate suppresses the urge to cough without affecting the central nervous system the way opioid cough suppressants do.
Chemically, Benzonatate is related to tetracaine, a local anesthetic. It typically begins working within 15 to 20 minutes after ingestion, and its effects last for 3 to 8 hours. The usual adult dose is 100 mg to 200 mg taken three times daily as needed.
Benzonatate is available only as oral capsules (perles). There is no liquid, chewable, or extended-release formulation. Capsules must be swallowed whole — they should never be chewed or dissolved, as this can cause serious numbness of the mouth and throat.
Benzonatate is a widely available generic medication used to suppress coughs. It is stocked at most major retail and independent pharmacies across the United States. Occasional spot shortages may occur due to supply chain fluctuations, but overall availability is strong. If your local pharmacy is temporarily out, checking nearby pharmacies or using Medfinder can help you locate it quickly.
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Benzonatate can be prescribed by a wide range of healthcare providers, including:
No. Benzonatate is not classified as a controlled substance by the DEA. Unlike codeine-containing cough syrups, it does not have abuse potential or require special prescribing restrictions. A standard prescription is all that is needed, and refills are straightforward.
However, it is important to note that Benzonatate can be dangerous if misused — particularly if capsules are chewed or dissolved instead of swallowed whole, which can cause severe oropharyngeal numbing, choking, and in rare cases, fatal reactions, especially in children under 10 years of age.
Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. Serious warning: If capsules are chewed or dissolved in the mouth, severe numbing of the throat can occur, potentially leading to choking or aspiration. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, severe allergic reactions, or confusion after taking Benzonatate.
If Benzonatate is unavailable or unsuitable, talk to your doctor about which alternative is best for your situation.
Benzonatate has relatively few drug interactions compared to opioid-based cough suppressants. However, always inform your pharmacist and doctor of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.
Benzonatate remains one of the most widely prescribed non-narcotic cough suppressants in the United States. It is affordable, effective, and generally well-tolerated. As a generic medication, it is available at virtually every pharmacy and is covered by most insurance plans at low copays.
If you're having trouble finding Benzonatate in stock at your pharmacy, use Medfinder to search nearby locations with availability. With discount coupons from GoodRx or SingleCare, cash prices can be as low as $4–$15, making it one of the most affordable prescription cough medications on the market.
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