Understanding Tessalon (Benzonatate)⁚ A Cough Suppressant
**Tessalon**, also known by its generic name **benzonatate**, is a medication specifically designed to suppress coughs․ It works differently from other cough medications, directly targeting the cough reflex rather than thinning mucus or loosening phlegm․ This article will delve into the uses, mechanism of action, potential side effects, and important precautions associated with Tessalon․
How Does Tessalon Work?
Tessalon works by numbing the stretch receptors located in your respiratory tract, including the lungs and airways․ These receptors are responsible for triggering the cough reflex when irritated․ By numbing them, Tessalon effectively reduces the urge to cough․
Uses of Tessalon
Tessalon is primarily prescribed for the symptomatic relief of coughs caused by various conditions, including⁚
- Common cold
- Influenza (flu)
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
Important Note⁚ Tessalon is not intended for chronic coughs associated with smoking, asthma, emphysema, or excessive mucus production․
Administration and Dosage
Tessalon is available in two forms⁚
* Capsules⁚ Typically 200 mg
* Perles (softgels)⁚ Typically 100 mg
The usual recommended dosage is 100 mg three times a day, but it can be adjusted by your doctor depending on the severity of your cough and your individual needs․ The maximum daily dosage is 600 mg․
Crucial Safety Information⁚
* Swallow Tessalon capsules/perles whole․ Do not chew, suck, break, crush, or dissolve them․ This can lead to the rapid release of the medication, causing numbness in the mouth and throat, and potentially choking or allergic reactions․
* Keep Tessalon out of reach of children․ Accidental ingestion, especially by young children, can be fatal․
Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, Tessalon may cause some side effects, including⁚
* Drowsiness or dizziness
* Headache
* Constipation
* Nausea
* Upset stomach
* Stuffy nose
* Burning sensation in the eyes
* Numbness or tingling in the mouth, throat, or chest
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience⁚
* Signs of an allergic reaction⁚ hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
* Severe drowsiness or dizziness
* Confusion
* Feeling faint
* Chest tightness
* Irregular heartbeat
* Seizures
Precautions and Interactions
* Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, particularly to local anesthetics like tetracaine or procaine․
* Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding․
* Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Tessalon․
* Avoid alcohol while taking Tessalon, as it can worsen drowsiness․
Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice․ Always consult your doctor for personalized guidance on using Tessalon․