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Benzonatate vs. Mucinex DM

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

Key takeaways

Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) and Deconex DMX (dextromethorphan/guaifenesin/phenylephrine) are both used to treat cough, but they belong to different medication classes. Benzonatate is an antitussive that numbs the nerves in your lungs and airways to reduce the urge to cough. It is available by prescription only and is taken orally three times a day. Deconex DMX is a combination of a cough suppressant, expectorant, and decongestant, available over-the-counter in both tablet and liquid forms. It is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours. Benzonatate is not recommended for children under 10 years old, while Deconex DMX has different age cut-offs depending on the brand. Common side effects of benzonatate include drowsiness and headache, whereas Deconex DMX can cause dizziness and sleepiness. Benzonatate should be swallowed whole to avoid numbing the mouth, while Deconex DMX should not be taken with MAOIs due to the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Benzonatate

(Tessalon Perles)

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Mucinex DM

(guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)

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Summary for Benzonatate

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.

Indications for Benzonatate

  • Cough in people ages 10 years and older

Pros and Cons for Benzonatate

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

Common Side Effects for Benzonatate

  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Nausea

Warnings for Benzonatate

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Mental health side effects
  • Accidental ingestion and death in children

Summary for Mucinex DM

Over-the-counter

Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is an over-the-counter medication that's used to relieve cough and loosen mucus. It has two active ingredients: guaifenesin (an expectorant that clears chest congestion) and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant that relieves cough). The medication is available as tablets, dissolvable granules, and liquid that are taken by mouth, each with different dosages, directions, and age limits. Extended-release tablets are taken every 12 hours, while the other forms are usually taken every 4 hours. Most people have few to no side effects when used as directed, but it can sometimes cause stomach upset, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Indications for Mucinex DM

  • Short-term relief of coughs caused by minor throat or lung irritation (e.g., common cold)
  • Loosens and breaks up mucus in the airways (chest congestion)

Pros and Cons for Mucinex DM

Pros

  • Available as a tablet, oral liquid, and dissolvable granules
  • Available over the counter without a prescription
  • Sugar-free options available, so okay to use for people with high blood sugar
  • Works within 30 minutes to help lessen cough

Cons

  • Not meant to be used long-term
  • Might need to take multiple times a day to relieve symptoms
  • Many states require you to be over 18 to buy it because of risk of misuse
  • Can't cut or crush extended-release tablets

Common Side Effects for Mucinex DM

  • Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

Warnings for Mucinex DM

  • Risk of overdose and misuse
  • Interactions with certain medications for Parkinson's disease and depression
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - dissolvable granules only

Prices with our coupons for Benzonatate vs. Mucinex DM

Price Card Drug Icon
Benzonatate30 capsules / 200mg
$11.09$25.71
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Price Card Drug Icon
Mucinex DM20 tablets / 600mg/30mg
$9.86$19.60
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