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Compare Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
    Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
  • Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
    Dextromethorphan (Delsym)

  • Summary of Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

    Summary for Antitussive
    Prescription only

    Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) is a cough suppressant. It's used to relieve cough in people ages 10 years and older. Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) is taken by mouth three times a day as needed. Possible side effects of this medication include headache and constipation. Because benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) can make you drowsy, so it's best to avoid alcohol while taking it.

    Summary for Antitussive

    Dextromethorphan (Delsym) is an over-the-counter cough suppressant (antitussive). It helps relieve "dry" cough in adults and children by suppressing the cough reflex. Dextromethorphan (Delsym) is available as an extended-release (ER) cough syrup that's taken by mouth, typically every 12 hours. It also comes as an immediate-release (IR) caplet that's usually taken every 6 to 8 hours. Dextromethorphan might also come in additional formulations, under other brands. Some common side effects of dextromethorphan (Delsym) include nausea and stomach upset. Rarely, it can also make you sleepy.

  • Indications of Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

    Indications for
    •Cough in people ages 10 years and older
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of cough caused by minor throat or lung irritation (e.g., common cold)

  • Pros and Cons of Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

    Pros and Const for Antitussive
    Pros
    •Works quickly, within 15 to 20 minutes
    •Is a non-narcotic treatment for cough, meaning it isn't habit forming
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Might have to take it three times a day
    •Must be swallowed whole to avoid unwanted side effects
    •Not for children younger than 10 years old
    Pros and Const for Antitussive
    Pros
    •Available as pills or oral liquids
    •Sugar-free options available
    •Available over the counter without a prescription
    Cons
    •Might need to take multiple times a day
    •Meant for short-term treatment of cough only
    •Found in many OTC products, so you can accidentally take too much

  • Common Side Effects of Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    •Constipation
    •Nausea
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Belly discomfort

  • Warnings of Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Mental health side effects
    •Accidental ingestion and death in children
    Common Side Effects for
    •Overdose and misuse
    •Medication interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Benzonatate vs. Dextromethorphan

    Learn more about Benzonatate
    Learn more about Dextromethorphan

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