Tessalon Perles Side Effects
Generic name: benzonatate
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 5, 2025.
Note: This document provides detailed information about Tessalon Perles.
Applies to benzonatate: oral capsule, oral capsule liquid filled Side Effects associated with benzonatate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Tessalon Perles.
Applies to benzonatate: oral capsule, oral capsule liquid filled.
Precautions
It is very important that your doctor check your progress while you or your child are using this medicine. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to take it.
If your cough has not become better after 7 days or if you have a high fever, skin rash, or continuing headache with the cough, check with your doctor. These signs may mean that you have other medical problems.
Benzonatate overdose can occur in children (younger than 10 years of age) within 15 to 20 minutes after accidentally taking this medicine. In children under 2 years of age, ingestion of even 1 or 2 capsules has resulted in overdose. Signs and symptoms may include: convulsions (seizures), loss of consciousness, restlessness, or trembling or shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet. If your child took this medicine by accident, call the poison control center (1-800-222-1222) and go to the hospital immediately.
Serious side effects of Tessalon Perles
Along with its needed effects, benzonatate (the active ingredient contained in Tessalon Perles) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking benzonatate:
Rare side effects
- confusion
- difficult breathing
- difficulty with speaking
- seeing things that are not there
- shortness of breath
- tightness in the chest
- wheezing
Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking benzonatate:
Symptoms of overdose
- change in consciousness
- convulsions (seizures)
- loss of consciousness
- no blood pressure or pulse
- restlessness
- shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
- stopping of the heart
- trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
- unconsciousness
Other side effects of Tessalon Perles
Some side effects of benzonatate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Less common or rare side effects
- burning sensation in the eyes
- constipation
- dizziness (mild)
- drowsiness (mild)
- headache
- itching
- nausea or vomiting
- skin rash
- stuffy nose
For healthcare professionals
Applies to benzonatate: oral capsule.
General adverse events
The most serious side effects reported were bronchospasm, laryngospasm, and cardiovascular collapse.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
- Frequency not reported: Bronchospasm, laryngospasm, cardiovascular collapse, hypersensitivity[Ref]
Nervous system
- Frequency not reported: Sedation, headache, dizziness, mental confusion, visual hallucinations.[Ref]
Respiratory
- Frequency not reported: Nasal congestion, numbness of the chest[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
- Frequency not reported: Constipation, nausea, GI upset[Ref]
Dermatologic
Ocular
- Frequency not reported: Sensation of burning in the eyes[Ref]
Other
- Frequency not reported: Vague "chilly" sensation[Ref]
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References
1. (2001) "Product Information. Tessalon (benzonatate)." Forest Pharmaceuticals
Frequently asked questions
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Further information
Tessalon Perles side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.