Benzonatate Side Effects

Some side effects of benzonatate may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to benzonatate: oral capsule

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking benzonatate: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking benzonatate and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• a choking feeling;

• chest pain or numbness;

• feeling like you might pass out;

• confusion; or

• hallucinations.

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

Less serious side effects of benzonatate may include:

• headache;

• dizziness;

• drowsiness;

• nausea, vomiting, constipation; or

• mild itching or skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to benzonatate: oral capsule

Nervous system

Nervous system adverse effects have rarely included headache, dizziness, mental confusion, bizarre behavior, and visual hallucinations. Seizures have been reported in patients after ingesting high doses.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects may include choking induced by the anesthetic action of benzonatate if chewed or sucked. Patients should be informed to swallow the capsule whole. Nasal congestion has been reported rarely.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects include bronchospasm, laryngospasm, and cardiovascular collapse that may be related to chewing or sucking the capsule instead of swallowing it whole.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included constipation, nausea, and gastrointestinal upset.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included pruritus and skin eruptions.

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