From the Guidelines
Tessalon Perles (benzonatate) and oral prednisone can be taken together as they have different mechanisms of action and treat different aspects of respiratory conditions. Benzonatate is a non-narcotic cough suppressant that works by numbing stretch receptors in the lungs, while prednisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. When prescribed together, benzonatate typically comes as 100mg or 200mg capsules taken three times daily, while prednisone dosing varies based on the condition being treated (often 5-60mg daily) 1. These medications complement each other in conditions like bronchitis or COPD exacerbations, where inflammation causes coughing. However, be aware of potential side effects: benzonatate may cause drowsiness or dizziness, while prednisone can cause increased blood sugar, mood changes, and fluid retention, as well as more severe side effects such as osteoporosis, cataracts, and glaucoma with long-term use 1. Benzonatate capsules should be swallowed whole, never chewed or dissolved in the mouth, as this can cause dangerous numbing of the throat. Always take these medications exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and don't stop prednisone suddenly as it requires gradual tapering.
Some key considerations when taking these medications together include:
- Monitoring for side effects, particularly those associated with prednisone use, such as changes in blood sugar levels, mood, and fluid retention 1.
- Ensuring proper administration of benzonatate to avoid numbing of the throat and other potential complications.
- Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust the dosage as needed.
- Being aware of the potential for interactions with other medications and informing your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.
It's also important to note that the use of prednisone should be minimized to the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration possible to reduce the risk of side effects, and that alternative treatments should be considered if side effects become a concern 1.
From the Research
Tessalon Perles and Oral Prednisone
- There is no direct information available on Tessalon Perles and oral prednisone in the provided studies.
- However, the studies do provide information on the effects of oral prednisone on asthma and allergic inflammation:
- A study from 2001 2 found that oral prednisone improved baseline FEV(1) and inhibited the influx of inflammatory cells, including eosinophils and basophils, in allergic asthmatic subjects.
- A study from 2017 3 found that oral prednisolone caused a similar degree of suppression of eosinophilic inflammation in both mild/moderate and severe asthmatics.
- A study from 2019 4 discussed the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids, including oral prednisone, in asthma treatment.
- A study from 2002 5 reviewed corticosteroid-induced hypersensitivity reactions, which may be relevant to patients taking oral prednisone.
- It is also worth noting that biologic agents, such as those used to treat asthma and allergic diseases, can have adverse effects, including hypersensitivity reactions 6.