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Benzonatate
What is benzonatate?
Benzonatate is an antitussive (cough suppressant) medication used to treat coughing related to tracheal collapse or coughing secondary to other respiratory conditions in dogs.
It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet benzonatate?
Benzonatate comes in liquid-filled capsule form.
This medication should take effect within a few hours.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time as prescribed by your veterinarian for the next dose. This medication must be given very carefully - contact your veterinarian for further directions if you have any concerns. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Benzonatate may cause the following side effects:
The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last less than 24 hours, though effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
DO NOT USE benzonatate in animals that:
USE WITH CAUTION in dogs who:
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with benzonatate, including:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Jan 22, 2025.
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