Benzonatate is used to relieve coughing.

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic cough medicine that numbs the throat and lungs, making the cough reflex less active.

Benzonatate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to benzonatate or topical numbing medicines such as tetracaine or procaine (found in some insect bite and sunburn creams).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Benzonatate is not approved for use by anyone younger than 10 years old. An overdose of benzonatate can be fatal, especially to a young child who has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

Use Tessalon (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Stop taking this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness or dizziness;
• confusion, hallucinations.
• ongoing numbness or tingling in your mouth, throat, or face;
• numbness in your chest;
• a choking feeling;
• chills; or
• burning in your eyes.

Some of these side effects may result from chewing or sucking on a benzonatate capsule.

Common side effects may include:

• headache, dizziness;
• nausea, upset stomach;
• constipation;
• itching, rash; or
• stuffy nose.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid eating or drinking anything while you feel numbness or tingling in your mouth or throat.