Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: BENZONATATE- ORAL (ben-ZO-nat-ate)
BRAND NAME(S): Tessalon Perle
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication dulls the cough reflex. It is used to relieve a cough due to colds or allergies. Its effects last for up to eight hours.
HOW TO USE: This medication must be swallowed whole. Do not break or chew the capsules or allow them to dissolve in your mouth since the medication can numb the mouth and throat. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids (6-8 glasses a day) to help relieve cold symptoms.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, nausea, constipation, drowsiness, mild dizziness, nasal congestion or headache may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, numbness of the chest, tremors. Because this medication may cause drowsiness or dizziness, use caution performing tasks requiring alertness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have any allergies or illness. This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Since it is not known if this medication is found in breast milk; consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, tremors, and seizures.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Common Cold - Get the facts on common cold causes (virus), symptoms, treatment, how long a cold lasts, how it's transmitted, how to avoid colds and home remedies for this contagious illness.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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