Benzonatate (Tessalon) Dispensing Quantity
Benzonatate is typically dispensed in quantities of 30 capsules, which represents a 10-day supply at the standard dosing regimen of one capsule three times daily. 1
Standard Dispensing Practice
- The most common package size is 30 capsules per bottle, as indicated in the FDA-approved product labeling 1
- This quantity aligns with the typical duration of acute viral cough, which is the primary indication for benzonatate 2
Dosing Context for Dispensing Decisions
The standard dispensing quantity of 30 capsules is based on the FDA-approved dosing regimen:
- Adults and children over 10 years: One 100 mg or 200 mg capsule three times daily as needed for cough 1
- Maximum daily dose: 600 mg in three divided doses 1
- At standard dosing (one capsule TID), 30 capsules provides approximately 10 days of therapy 1
Safety Considerations Affecting Dispensing Quantity
Limited dispensing quantities are particularly important given benzonatate's significant toxicity risk in overdose:
- Benzonatate can cause rapid cardiac arrest and death, even in adults, with ingestion of less than 30 capsules (6,000 mg) 3
- Fatal cases have been documented in both children and adults, with death occurring within 1 hour of ingestion 4, 3
- The structurally similar local anesthetic properties create risks that are not fully appreciated by the public 3
Clinical Pitfalls
- Avoid dispensing large quantities (e.g., 90-day supplies) given the serious overdose risk and the self-limited nature of acute cough 4, 3
- Patient education is critical at the time of dispensing, emphasizing that capsules must be swallowed whole and never chewed, crushed, or dissolved 1
- The 30-capsule bottle size serves as a built-in safety mechanism, limiting the total amount available for potential misuse or accidental overdose 1, 3