Tessalon Perles: Uses, Dosage, and What to Expect
Introduction:
Tessalon Perles (generic name: benzonatate) is a prescription medication commonly used to relieve coughing. Unlike traditional over-the-counter cough suppressants, Tessalon Perles work by numbing the throat and lungs, making the cough reflex less active.
In this guide, MyCyberClinic will break down what Tessalon Perles are used for, recommended dosages, how they work, and what side effects or precautions to expect.
Benzonatate is a prescription cough suppressant. It calms your cough reflex to help prevent coughing for three to eight hours after taking a dose. It’s not a steroid or a narcotic. Benzonatate overdoses can be very dangerous or even fatal.
Use this medication only as prescribed and keep it out of reach of children.
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What Are Tessalon Perles?
Tessalon Perles are oral, soft gel capsules that contain benzonatate, a non-narcotic cough suppressant. They are often prescribed for dry, non-productive coughs—especially when coughing is frequent, disruptive, or painful.
Benzonatate (pronounced ben-ZOE-na-tate) is a medication used to relieve coughing. It works by calming the cough reflex in the lungs and airways, helping to reduce the urge to cough.
Benzonatate belongs to a class of drugs known as cough suppressants. It is commonly sold under brand names such as Tessalon Perles and Zonatuss.
In some cases, this medication may be used for purposes other than treating a cough.
If you have questions about its use, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water, exactly as directed on your prescription label. Be sure not to break, chew, or suck on the capsules, as doing so can lead to serious side effects. Take each dose at evenly spaced intervals and do not take more than prescribed.
If this medication is being considered for a child, talk to your healthcare provider. Although it may be prescribed to children as young as 10 years old for certain conditions, special precautions are necessary.
If you think you or someone else may have taken too much of this medication, seek immediate medical help by contacting a poison control center or going to the emergency room.
Remember, this medication is prescribed specifically for you; do not share it with anyone else.
Tessalon Perles are typically used to treat:
- Persistent dry cough
- Cough due to colds or respiratory infections
- Cough-related throat irritation
- Post-viral cough (after the infection is gone, but the cough remains)
- Sometimes used in combination with other medications for bronchitis or pneumonia (under medical supervision)
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What should I watch for while using this medication?
Let your healthcare provider know if your symptoms don’t improve or begin to worsen. You should also seek medical attention if you develop a high fever, skin rash, or headache.
This medication can affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you. To prevent dizziness or fainting, especially after lying down, rise slowly to a standing position.
This medication is not safe for children under 10 years old, as even small amounts can be fatal if accidentally ingested. Do not chew or crush the capsules, as doing so may lead to choking or serious allergic reactions.
Use caution if you have a history of asthma, liver conditions, or known allergies to local anesthetics such as procaine.
Before starting treatment, make sure your healthcare provider is aware of your full medical history.
Also, avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medication, as they can increase the risk of drowsiness and related side effects.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Potential Side Effects of Tessalon Perles (benzonatate):
Most people tolerate this medication well, but side effects can occur. You should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious reactions such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat—these may be signs of an allergic reaction. Other serious side effects may include confusion, hallucinations, chest numbness or tightness, or seizures, particularly in children or in cases of overdose.
Less serious side effects are more common and usually do not require medical attention unless they persist or become bothersome. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, headache, constipation, or a burning or tingling sensation in the tongue, mouth, throat, or face.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. For medical advice, contact your healthcare provider.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets, as accidental ingestion can be dangerous. Store it at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F), in a tightly closed container. Protect it from light and moisture, and do not keep or use the medication after the expiration date.
When it’s time to dispose of unused or expired medication, the safest option is to take it to a medication take-back program. You can ask your pharmacy or local law enforcement agency for nearby locations.
If a take-back program isn’t available, check the label or package insert to see if the medication can be safely thrown in the trash or flushed down the toilet. If you’re unsure, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
For trash disposal, remove the medication from its container and mix it with an undesirable substance—like used coffee grounds, cat litter, or dirt—then seal the mixture in a bag or container before placing it in the trash.
Can Tessalon Perles Be Used with Other Cough Medications?
Yes, but only under medical supervision. Combining with other suppressants, expectorants, or sedatives may lead to increased side effects or drug interactions. Always inform your doctor of all medications you’re taking.
Final Thoughts: What to Expect
Tessalon Perles are a safe and effective option for managing dry, irritating coughs when used as prescribed. Relief is usually felt within minutes, and side effects are typically mild.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions closely and avoid misuse, especially in children.
FAQ
1. What are Tessalon Perles used for? Tessalon Perles are used to relieve dry, non-productive coughs caused by colds, respiratory infections, or throat irritation. They work by numbing the airways to reduce the cough reflex.
2. How quickly do Tessalon Perles work? They typically start working within 15 to 20 minutes of taking a dose, with effects lasting up to 6–8 hours.
3. Can I chew or open Tessalon Perles capsules? No. You must swallow them whole. Chewing or sucking the capsule can lead to severe reactions like throat numbness, choking, or allergic symptoms.
4. Is it safe to give Tessalon Perles to children? Tessalon Perles are not recommended for children under 10 years old, as even one capsule can be fatal if accidentally ingested.
5. Can I take Tessalon Perles with other medications? Possibly, but only under the guidance of your doctor. Combining with other cough medicines or sedatives may increase the risk of side effects.
6. What should I do if I miss a dose? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one — do not double-dose.
7. What are the common side effects of Tessalon Perles? Mild side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, or headache. Serious side effects like allergic reactions or seizures are rare but require immediate medical attention.
