What is the brand name for Benzonatate?
The brand name for Benzonatate is Tessalon.
PTCE Top 200 · #122
Benzonatate
Tessalon
Benzonatate is the generic name for the brand-name drug Tessalon. It is an antitussive used to treat cough. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Benzonatate ranks #122 and is one of the most frequently tested respiratory/allergy medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Benzonatate |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Tessalon |
| Drug class | Antitussive |
| Class group | Respiratory/Allergy |
| Common use | cough |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Benzonatate used for?
Symptomatic relief of cough.
What drug class is Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is an Antitussive in the Respiratory/Allergy group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Benzonatate
- arrow_rightDrowsiness
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightSedation
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightHeadache
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAlcohol or other CNS depressants → additive sedation
- arrow_rightDo NOT chew/crush capsules (can cause local anesthesia, choking/bronchospasm)
Is Benzonatate a controlled substance?
No. Benzonatate is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Benzonatate (PTCE mnemonic)
TESS-alon TUSSes out cough — benzo-NATATE numbs respiratory stretch receptors. SWALLOW WHOLE (chewing → mouth/throat numb, choking risk); fatal in kids <10.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Tessalon Perles must be swallowed WHOLE — chewing numbs the mouth and throat and can cause choking. A favorite dosage-form safety question.
Benzonatate FAQ
What is Benzonatate used for?
Benzonatate is used to treat cough. Symptomatic relief of cough.
What drug class is Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is an Antitussive (Respiratory/Allergy group).
Is Benzonatate a controlled substance?
No. Benzonatate is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Respiratory/Allergy group
Drill Benzonatate the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).