What Are Benz Pearls (Benzonatate)?
Benz pearls are a colloquial name for Tessalon Perles, the brand name for the prescription medication benzonatate. These small, pearl-like, liquid-filled capsules contain the active ingredient benzonatate, which is prescribed to provide symptomatic relief from a cough. It is important to note that this medication is not available over-the-counter and is only for adults and children 10 years of age and older.
The Antitussive Drug Class
The primary question, "what class of drug is benz pearls?", is answered by identifying its classification as an antitussive, or cough suppressant. This class of medications is used to control and relieve coughing by inhibiting the cough reflex. Unlike some other cough medicines, benzonatate is a non-narcotic and is not chemically related to opioids or steroids, distinguishing its mechanism of action from narcotic antitussives like codeine.
- Peripheral vs. Central Action: Antitussive medications can be broadly categorized based on their site of action. Some act peripherally on the nerves in the lungs and airways, while others act centrally on the cough center in the brain. Benzonatate exerts its effects peripherally, but also has some central action, to provide effective cough relief.
- Types of Coughs: Antitussives like benzonatate are typically used for a dry, non-productive cough. They are not recommended for a wet cough that produces a large amount of phlegm or mucus, as suppressing this type of cough can prevent the body from clearing the airways.
How Benzonatate Works
Benzonatate's primary mechanism of action involves anesthetizing, or numbing, the stretch receptors located in the lungs, pleura, and bronchial passages. These receptors are part of the nervous pathway that triggers the cough reflex. By dampening their activity, benzonatate reduces the urge to cough. The medication works within 15 to 20 minutes of being swallowed, with a single dose providing relief for approximately 3 to 8 hours.
Due to its chemical resemblance to local anesthetic agents like procaine and tetracaine, benzonatate can cause local numbing if the liquid-filled capsule is broken in the mouth. This critical safety warning is why patients must always swallow the capsules whole. Improper administration can lead to life-threatening side effects, including choking, allergic reactions, and bronchospasm.
Benzonatate vs. Other Cough Suppressants
| Feature | Benzonatate (Benz Pearls / Tessalon Perles) | Dextromethorphan (Robitussin, Delsym) | Guaifenesin (Mucinex) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Non-narcotic antitussive | Non-narcotic antitussive | Expectorant |
| Mechanism | Numbed lung stretch receptors | Depresses cough center in the brain | Thins and loosens mucus |
| Prescription | Yes (Prescription-only) | No (Over-the-counter) | No (Over-the-counter) |
| Best for | Dry, non-productive cough | Dry, non-productive cough | Wet, productive cough with mucus |
| Administration | Must be swallowed whole | Available as syrups, tablets, and capsules | Available as syrups, tablets, and capsules |
| Main Risk | Choking/allergic reaction if chewed | Potential for abuse at high doses | Less effective for dry cough |
Important Safety Information
Patient safety is paramount when taking benzonatate. The most significant risk is associated with improper ingestion. To prevent serious complications, always follow these instructions:
- Swallow the Capsule Whole: Never chew, crush, suck on, or dissolve the capsule. The anesthetic effect released in the mouth and throat can cause numbness, leading to a choking sensation or difficulty swallowing.
- Keep Out of Reach of Children: The pearl-like appearance of the capsules can be attractive to young children. Accidental ingestion can be fatal, especially in children under 10 years old. Store this medication in a child-resistant container and out of sight.
- Watch for Allergic Reactions: Severe hypersensitivity reactions can occur, including signs like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, and tongue. If these occur, seek emergency medical help immediately.
- Age Restriction: This medication is not approved for use in children under 10 years of age, and specific precautions apply for children between 10 and 12 years.
Common Side Effects and Interactions
While generally well-tolerated, some side effects may occur with benzonatate. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, dizziness, nausea, constipation, and a stuffy nose. In rare cases, more serious side effects have been reported, such as confusion, hallucinations, and unusual behavior. Due to the risk of increased drowsiness, caution should be exercised when taking benzonatate with other medications that cause sleepiness, including alcohol, sedatives, and opioids. Your healthcare provider should always be informed of any other medications you are taking to prevent adverse interactions.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to "what class of drug is benz pearls?" is that it is a non-narcotic antitussive, or cough suppressant. The medication, known generically as benzonatate and by the brand name Tessalon Perles, works by numbing the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways to reduce the cough reflex. As a prescription-only medication, it is crucial to use it as directed, always swallowing the capsule whole to avoid serious and potentially fatal complications related to its local anesthetic properties. Given its particular mechanism and safety considerations, it is distinct from other common over-the-counter alternatives and requires careful medical supervision.
Drugs.com provides detailed patient tips and professional information about benzonatate, including dosage, side effects, and warnings.
