From the Guidelines
It is not recommended to take NyQuil and Tessalon Perles at the same time due to the potential for increased risk of respiratory depression and other adverse effects. Although the provided study 1 does not directly address the combination of dextromethorphan and benzonatate, it highlights the dangers of co-prescribing centrally acting muscle relaxants/sedative-hypnotics with opioids, which can lead to potentiation of opioid-related respiratory depression. While NyQuil contains dextromethorphan, which is not an opioid, and Tessalon Perles contains benzonatate, a non-narcotic cough suppressant, the principle of caution when combining centrally acting medications still applies.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the safety of combining these medications include:
- The potential for additive sedative effects, as NyQuil contains ingredients like antihistamines and alcohol that can cause drowsiness
- The risk of masking symptoms that might need medical attention, such as a severe cough that could be a sign of an underlying condition
- The importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before taking multiple medications, especially if the cough is severe or persistent
Given the lack of direct evidence on the safety of combining NyQuil and Tessalon Perles, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid taking these medications together. If a patient is prescribed Tessalon Perles by their doctor, it is recommended to use that medication alone for cough suppression and avoid over-the-counter cough products like NyQuil unless specifically advised by their healthcare provider 1.
From the Research
Interaction between NyQuil and Tessalon Perles
- There is no direct evidence from the provided studies that addresses the interaction between NyQuil (dextromethorphan) and Tessalon Perles (benzonatate) when taken together.
- The studies provided focus on the efficacy and mechanisms of dextromethorphan 2, 3, 4 and the potential respiratory effects of benzodiazepines 5, but do not specifically discuss the combination of dextromethorphan and benzonatate.
- One study discusses the antitussive efficacy of dextromethorphan in cough associated with acute upper respiratory tract infection, finding little support for its clinically significant antitussive activity 2.
- Another study reviews the efficacy of dextromethorphan for the treatment of depression, indicating its potential as a novel therapeutic target 3.
- A review of dextromethorphan's utility for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders highlights its diverse pharmacologic actions and potential benefits, but also notes the need for further research on optimal dosing and safety 4.
- A study on benzodiazepines suggests they may contribute to respiratory problems, but this is not directly relevant to benzonatate, which is a non-narcotic oral anesthetic used for the temporary relief of cough 5.
- An older study on the dissociation of Penicillium vitale catalase under the effect of urea and acid pH is not relevant to the interaction between NyQuil and Tessalon Perles 6.