From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Adults and Children over 10 years of age: Usual dose is one 100 mg or 200 mg capsule three times a day as needed for cough. Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in children below the age of 10 have not been established
Yes, a 13-year-old can take Benzonatate (Tessalon) 200 milligrams, as the dosage instructions specify that the medication can be given to children over 10 years of age 1. The recommended dose for this age group is one 100 mg or 200 mg capsule three times a day as needed for cough.
From the Research
I strongly advise against giving benzonatate 200 mg to a 13-year-old without a doctor's prescription and guidance. Benzonatate (brand name Tessalon Perles) is a non-narcotic cough suppressant that is FDA-approved only for patients 10 years and older, so while a 13-year-old could potentially take it with proper medical supervision, the dosage must be determined by a healthcare provider. The standard adult dose is 100-200 mg three times daily, but children may require different dosing based on their weight and medical condition.
This medication works by numbing stretch receptors in the lungs, reducing the cough reflex. Important safety concerns include the risk of severe reactions if the capsules are chewed or dissolved in the mouth rather than swallowed whole, which can cause throat numbness and potential choking. Benzonatate can also cause side effects like dizziness, headache, stomach upset, and rarely, serious allergic reactions. According to a case report published in 2020 2, benzonatate overdose can lead to life-threatening toxicity, including torsades de pointes, cardiac arrest, and complete recovery without neurologic deficits. Another study published in 2012 3 reported a case of benzonatate overdose in a teenager resulting in coma, seizures, and severe metabolic acidosis.
Always consult with a pediatrician before giving any prescription medication to a child, as they can assess the child's individual needs and provide guidance on safe and effective use. The potential risks associated with benzonatate, as highlighted in a case report of cardiac arrest due to benzonatate overdose published in 2019 4, further emphasize the need for caution and medical supervision when administering this medication to a 13-year-old.
Key considerations for the use of benzonatate in children include:
- Dosage determination by a healthcare provider
- Risk of severe reactions if capsules are not swallowed whole
- Potential side effects, such as dizziness and stomach upset
- Rare but serious allergic reactions
- Importance of medical supervision and guidance.