Key takeaways
Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) and dextromethorphan (Delsym) are both antitussive medications used to relieve cough. However, they differ in several ways. Benzonatate is a prescription-only medication that works by numbing the nerves in your lungs and airways, while dextromethorphan is available over-the-counter and works by lowering activity in the part of your brain that makes you cough. Benzonatate is typically taken three times a day, whereas dextromethorphan can be taken every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the formulation. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of benzonatate include drowsiness and headache, while dextromethorphan may cause nausea and stomach upset. Additionally, dextromethorphan can interact with certain medications and lead to serotonin syndrome, whereas benzonatate can cause severe allergic reactions if the capsule is chewed or crushed.
