Benzonatate

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jan 11, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Benzonatate (Tessalon)


Is benzonatate (Tessalon) good for COVID cough?

Yes, benzonatate is a non-sedating non-narcotic cough medicine. It may help to relieve dry cough associated with a COVID-19 infection. You should follow your doctor’s advice on taking benzonatate and/or other drugs for COVID cough treatment.



Is benzonatate (Tessalon)  better than Mucinex?

Benzonatate and Mucinex (guaifenesin) are two different medicines used to treat cough. Mucinex is an expectorant that helps to loosen mucus and relieve congestion. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe benzonatate (Tessalon) and Mucinex together.



Does benzonatate (Tessalon) help with mucus?

No, benzonatate is effective against a dry cough. It works by numbing the throat and lung passages and suppressing the cough reflex. Benzonatate does not cut mucus or phlegm and will not relieve chest congestion.



Can you drink alcohol while taking benzonatate (Tessalon)?

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while on benzonatate (Tessalon). Both alcohol and benzonatate can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Drinking alcohol while on benzonatate can worsen these side effects and increase the risk of accidents and injuries.



How quickly does benzonatate (Tessalon) start working?

Benzonatate starts working within 15-20 minutes to provide relief from coughing. The effects of this medicine last for 3-8 hours. You may need to take benzonatate up to 3 times a day for complete relief from cough.



What is the price of benzonatate (Tessalon) without insurance?

Without insurance, benzonatate can be as high as $74.74, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $10.17 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions of benzonatate like Tessalon. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of benzonatate (Tessalon) with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on benzonatate—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for benzonatate. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.