Is Benzonatate a Benzo? Understanding This Cough Suppressant

Coughs are a common ailment, and finding effective relief is often a top priority. Benzonatate is a prescription medication frequently used to suppress coughs, but with various medications available, it’s natural to have questions about what you’re taking. One common question, particularly given the names of some anxiety medications, is: Is Benzonatate A Benzo?

This article, crafted by a car repair expert branching into helpful health information, will clarify what benzonatate is, how it works, and definitively answer whether it belongs to the benzodiazepine family. We’ll break down the key facts to help you understand this cough suppressant and use it safely and effectively.

What is Benzonatate?

Benzonatate is an anesthetic medication specifically designed to reduce coughing. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and available by prescription in the United States since the 1950s. Interestingly, its use has become increasingly common in recent years. Studies show a significant rise in benzonatate prescriptions and administrations in outpatient and emergency settings between 2003 and 2018.

Benzonatate is available in liquid-filled capsules, often known by brand names like Tessalon® and Zonatuss®. These capsules are sometimes referred to as “perles” due to their small, pearl-like appearance. Once swallowed, the liquid inside the capsule is absorbed by your body, enters the bloodstream, and travels to the lungs.

Benzonatate vs. Benzodiazepines: Key Differences

To directly address the question: No, benzonatate is not a benzodiazepine (benzo). This is a crucial distinction. Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs, typically used for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They work by affecting the central nervous system, often having sedative and muscle-relaxant properties. Common examples include Xanax, Valium, and Ativan.

Benzonatate, on the other hand, is classified as an anesthetic. While both types of drugs affect the nervous system, they do so in very different ways and for different purposes. Benzonatate’s primary action is to numb or reduce sensitivity in nerve endings, specifically those in the airways that trigger the cough reflex. It does not have the same mechanism of action or effects as benzodiazepines on the brain and central nervous system related to anxiety or sedation in the same way benzos do.

This difference is important because it means benzonatate does not carry the same risks of dependency and withdrawal associated with benzodiazepines. However, like all medications, benzonatate has its own set of precautions and side effects, which we will discuss further.

How Benzonatate Works to Suppress Coughs

Alt text: Pearl-like benzonatate capsules, highlighting their small and distinct appearance.

Benzonatate’s effectiveness as a cough suppressant comes from its anesthetic properties. It works by numbing the stretch receptors in the respiratory passages, lungs, and pleura. These receptors are responsible for initiating the cough reflex when they are irritated or stimulated. By reducing the sensitivity of these receptors, benzonatate can help to lessen the urge to cough.

Think of it like this: imagine tiny sensors in your airways that are overly sensitive and trigger a cough at the slightest irritation. Benzonatate acts to gently calm these sensors down, making them less likely to fire off a cough reflex unnecessarily. This action helps to relieve coughs caused by colds, flu, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions.

Uses of Benzonatate: When is it Prescribed?

Benzonatate is prescribed solely as a cough suppressant. It is used to relieve coughs caused by various conditions, including:

Common cold and flu: To alleviate coughs associated with viral infections.
Bronchitis: To reduce coughing related to inflammation of the bronchial tubes.
Other respiratory infections: For coughs stemming from conditions like pneumonia or sinusitis.

It’s important to remember that benzonatate is a prescription medication. It is not available over the counter in the United States. This is because, while generally safe when used as directed, it does have potential side effects and risks, especially if misused or taken in overdose.

Dosage and Administration: How to Take Benzonatate Safely

Benzonatate is available in capsule form in strengths of 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg. The typical adult dose is usually 100-200 mg taken three times a day as needed for cough relief. However, your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and frequency based on your specific condition and needs.

Crucial Instructions for Safe Use:

Swallow capsules whole: Benzonatate capsules must be swallowed intact. Do not chew, crush, or dissolve them.
Avoid breaking or opening: Breaking, chewing, or dissolving the capsules can release the liquid contents in your mouth, leading to rapid numbing of the mouth and throat. This numbing effect can be severe and cause choking and breathing difficulties.
Eye contact: Avoid getting the liquid contents in your eyes. Eye exposure can cause pain, blurred vision, and potential eye damage. If eye exposure occurs, rinse immediately with water and seek medical advice.

Side Effects of Benzonatate: What to Watch Out For

Like all medications, benzonatate can cause side effects. Common side effects are generally mild and may include:

Nausea
Headache
Confusion
Drowsiness (somnolence)

Less common but more serious side effects can include psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations.

Benzonatate Overdose: A Serious Risk

Benzonatate is particularly dangerous if taken in overdose. Overdose symptoms can appear rapidly after ingestion and can be severe, including:

Seizures
Irregular heart rhythms
Cardiac arrest
In severe cases, death can occur.

If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact Poison Control right away.

Benzonatate for Children: Use with Caution

Benzonatate is not approved for use in children under 10 years of age. Young children are at higher risk of serious adverse events from benzonatate. Infants and toddlers can choke on the capsules, and even a small number of capsules can cause significant poisoning or death in this age group.

Keep benzonatate out of reach of children at all times.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications: When to Avoid Benzonatate

While benzonatate is not a benzo, it can interact with other medications that cause drowsiness. Avoid taking benzonatate with:

Sedatives: Medications used to induce calmness or sleep.
Opioid analgesics: Strong pain relievers like morphine or codeine.
Cough and cold products: Many over-the-counter cough and cold medicines also cause drowsiness.
Other medications that cause somnolence: Discuss all your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to check for potential interactions.

Individuals with paraben allergies should also avoid benzonatate, as some formulations may contain parabens. People taking psychotropic medications should use benzonatate with caution due to the rare possibility of confusion and hallucinations.

What to Do in Case of Overdose or Adverse Reactions

Alt text: Poison Help badge with phone number 1-800-222-1222 and link to online help, emphasizing immediate access to poison control resources.

If you or someone you know experiences unwanted symptoms after taking benzonatate, or if an overdose is suspected, contact Poison Control immediately.

Online: www.poison.org
Phone: 1-800-222-1222

Both options are free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Real-Life Cases: Understanding the Risks

These case examples highlight the importance of using benzonatate as directed and understanding its potential risks:

Case 1: Misuse Leading to Eye Injury
A 46-year-old woman, following advice, applied benzonatate liquid from a capsule into her eye for irritation. Initially, it provided relief, but continued use led to blurred vision, worsening pain, and a corneal abrasion. She required antibiotics and eye drops to recover. This case underscores that benzonatate is not for topical use in the eyes and can cause harm if misused.

Case 2: Teen Overdose with Severe Consequences
A 17-year-old girl intentionally ingested at least 10 benzonatate capsules after an argument. She suffered cardiac arrest and brain damage, resulting in blindness and memory problems. This tragic case illustrates the severe toxicity of benzonatate overdose and the potential for life-altering consequences.

Prevention Tips for Safe Medication Use

Follow Prescriptions Carefully: Always take medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Read Package Inserts: Carefully read the information provided with your medication to understand dosing instructions and warnings.
Discuss Side Effects: Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects you experience.
Keep Medications Out of Reach of Children: Store benzonatate and all medications securely, away from children.

In Conclusion: Benzonatate is Not a Benzo, But Use with Care

To reiterate, benzonatate is not a benzodiazepine. It is an anesthetic cough suppressant with its own set of uses, benefits, and risks. While it can be effective for relieving coughs, it’s essential to use it responsibly, follow your doctor’s instructions, and be aware of potential side effects and overdose dangers. Understanding the difference between benzonatate and benzodiazepines is crucial for safe and informed medication use. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any questions or concerns about your medications.