Body’s automatic way of clearing airways and throat is by means of coughing, a process in which can protect the body, and this is categorized into two: chronic and acute cough. A chronic cough last longer and may lead to more complications like decrease in blood flow of the brain which will cause throat disorder, bleb rupture, pelvic and abdominal hernias, insomnia, fainting, red eye and subconjunctival hemorrhage. On the other hand, acute cough stays up to 2 to 3 week and cause by viruses which you contacted like flu virus or cold.
This condition is actually very easy to treat; one of the well known medications is the Benzonatate. Benzonatate is antitussive or an oral cough suppressant which is non-narcotic; its effects last for about 6-8 hours, Food and Drug Administration approved in 1958. This product is not abusive compared to some cough medicine like codeine. Commonly use to treat coughs caused by common cold and breathing problems like bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and emphysema. It reduces lung reflex that urge to cough.
This is taken through mouth, usually 3x daily with or even without food or as prescribed by your health care specialist. Taking this product more than prescribed will not help you get rid of the cough faster but can result in more serious problems and side effects.
The Top 7 Benzonatate Side Effects
1. Rare
Difficult breathing, confusion, wheezing, tightness in chest, difficulty with speaking, shortness of breath and seeing things that are not there or existing.
2. Less Common and No Medical Attention
Constipation, burning sensation in the eyes, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, stuffy nose, skin rashes, vomiting or nausea and itching.
3. Symptoms For Overdose
Convulsions or seizures, change in consciousness, restlessness, no pulse or blood pressure, loss of consciousness, unconsciousness, shaking or trembling of hands and feet, stopping of the heart, shakiness in arms, legs and feet.
4. Respiratory Side Effects
Includes choking by anesthetic action by Benzonatate once sucked or chewed.
5. Nervous System
Includes bizarre behavior, dizziness, headache, visual hallucinations and mental confusion.
6. Dermatologic
Includes skin eruptions and pruritus.
7. Hypersensitivity
Laryngospasm, bronchospasm, and cardiovascular collapse related from sucking or chewing the medicine instead of swallowing.
The 5 Most Common Drug Interactions
Before using the medication, tell them if you’re pregnant for safe prescription, tell them also if you’re taking several medication, nonprescription or herbal products. Never start, stop or even change your dosage without consulting them.
1. Anti-Seizure Drugs
Carbamazepine
2. Antihistamines
Diphenhydramine
3. Medicine For Anxiety Or Sleep
Alprazolam, Diazepam, Zolpidem
4. Muscle Relaxants
Narcotic Pain Relievers, Codeine
5. Psychiatric Medicines
Risperidone, Trazodone, Chlorpromazine, Risperidone or Amitriptyline
Report to your doctor immediately once mentioned effects occurred. Remember that this medicine was prescribed by your doctor for you to gain high of its benefits and not the risk of its side effects. People using this does not suffer serious side effects, but since people reacts differently, consult health concerned specialist right away for proper medication or prescription which is much suited to your body.
