Uses

Combination cough product used to relieve cough, upper respiratory congestion, and associated symptoms including runny nose and sneezing in adults with colds or respiratory tract infections.

Do not use if

Contraindicated with MAO inhibitors. Avoid in patients with severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease (phenylephrine). Use caution in elderly patients due to anticholinergic effects of diphenhydramine.

Side effects

Diphenhydramine may cause sedation, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Phenylephrine may cause increased blood pressure, headache, and nervousness. Guaifenesin is generally well tolerated. Benzonatate overdose can cause seizures and cardiac arrest.

Warnings

Benzonatate capsules must be swallowed whole; chewing or dissolving them can cause severe toxicity. May impair driving ability. Not for use in children under 10 years.

How it works

Benzonatate is a non-opioid antitussive that anesthetizes stretch receptors in the lungs and pleura. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that decreases mucus viscosity. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation H1 antihistamine with antitussive and anticholinergic effects. Phenylephrine is an alpha-1 adrenergic agonist causing nasal vasoconstriction to relieve congestion.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.