Benzonatate

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 06, 2022

Drug Details


Generic Names:

Benzonatate

Common Brands:

Tessalon, Tessalon Perles, Zonatuss 

Availability:

Prescription only

Therapeutic Class:

Non-narcotic oral antitussive

Forms:

Capsule

Administration:

By mouth

Therapeutic Uses:

Cough

Controlled Status:

Not a controlled substance


What is benzonatate (Tessalon)?

Benzonatate (ben zoe nah tate) is a non-narcotic cough medicine (antitussive or cough suppressant). 

Who can use benzonatate (Tessalon)?

Benzonatate is approved for use in adults and children over 10 years of age. This medicine is not safe for use in children younger than 10 years old. Ask your child’s doctor for alternative cough suppressants that are safe for use in children younger than 10 years old.