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Compare Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

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

  • Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
    Guaifenesin er
  • Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
    Guaifenesin er

  • Summary of Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

    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 Expectorant

    Guaifenesin extended-release (ER) is an over-the-counter expectorant used to relieve wet cough. It helps loosen phlegm in the throat and chest so you can cough it up more easily. Guaifenesin ER can be taken orally by adults and children 12 years and older, typically every 12 hours as needed. Most people experience few to no side effects after taking this medication as directed. Guaifenesin ER is available as a brand-name and generic medication.

  • Indications of Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

    Indications for
    •Cough in people ages 10 years and older
    Indications for
    •Loosens and breaks up mucus in the airways (chest congestion)

  • Pros and Cons of Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

    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 Expectorant
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Taken by mouth
    •Longer-lasting compared to guaifenesin IR
    Cons
    •Tablets can't be cut or crushed
    •Not meant to be taken long-term
    •Guaifenesin in many over-the-counter products, so you can accidentally take too much

  • Common Side Effects of Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    •Constipation
    •Nausea
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Diarrhea
    •Dizziness
    •Headache

  • Warnings of Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Mental health side effects
    •Accidental ingestion and death in children
    Common Side Effects for
    •Accidentally taking too much medication (overdose)

  • Prices with our coupons for Benzonatate vs. Mucinex

    Learn more about Benzonatate
    Learn more about Guaifenesin er

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