1.How long does it take for Benzonatate to get rid of a cough?
Benzonatate makes the cough reflex less active. Once you take the capsule, it starts working in 15 to 20 minutes, and the effect lasts for about 3 to 8 hours. It is used for coughs caused by a cold or influenza and not for chronic coughs caused by smoking, asthma and emphysema.
2. Does Benzonatate loosen mucus?
No, Benzonatate does not loosen mucus. Benzonatate belongs to a class of medicines called antitussives (cough suppressants). In patients with thick mucus or who are unable to cough up mucus, expectorants are used to loosen the mucus. If you are coughing with mucus, this might not be the best treatment.
3. Does Benzonatate increase blood pressure?
Benzonatate can sometimes lead to severe hypersensitivity reactions. Although rare, you can experience anaphylaxis, a hypersensitivity condition characterised by nausea, vomiting, trouble breathing, skin rash and a rapid drop in blood pressure called shock that may be potentially lethal.
In patients with high blood pressure, decongestants can increase blood pressure and speed up the heart rate.
4. Is Benzonatate a sedative?
One of the side effects of Benzonatate is drowsiness. The drug itself is not a sedative but can cause severe drowsiness or dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, etc. You should avoid driving and performing tasks that require alertness. If you experience an unusual reaction, contact your doctor immediately.
5. Is Benzonatate good for covid cough?
One of the most common symptoms of Covid-19 is a dry cough. Benzonatate works on dry cough by numbing your throat and the airway and reducing the urge to cough. However, it is not the best option for a cough with mucus.
6. How many days can you take Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is a prescription medication, and you should take it only as directed by your doctor. Usually, your doctor will advise you to take it three times a day; however, the dosage frequency may change according to the need. Follow the prescription label, or contact your doctor to know more.
7. Can I take a decongestant with Benzonatate?
Yes, doctors may prescribe decongestants and Benzonatate (cough suppressant) together with various drugs to treat a cough with or without phlegm, nasal congestion and stuffy nose. It is always advised to consult your doctor before taking a decongestant in combination with Benzonatate.
8. How much Benzonatate is lethal?
Adult patients should not exceed a single dose of 200 mg or a total daily dose of 600 mg of Benzonatate. The medication can have serious life-threatening effects in case of an overdose. Furthermore, you should keep it out of reach of children. In children, accidental ingestion of Benzonatate can lead to overdose symptoms within 15 to 20 minutes and death within an hour.
9. Can I take Benzonatate with Tylenol for cold and severe flu?
Benzonatate might interact with other medications. While certain medications are safe to take in combination, others might lead to side effects and can be life-threatening in some cases. Hence, you must take necessary precautions and consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication with Benzonatate.
10. Will Benzonatate keep you awake?
No, Benzonatate does not keep you awake. One of its most common side effects is drowsiness. Dizziness, mental confusion and hallucinations are some other symptoms. Do not drive or perform tasks that require alertness after taking the medication. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any side effects.
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