DayQuil With Benzonatate

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not there is an interaction between DayQuil and benzonatate.

Question

Can you take over-the-counter drugs such as Dayquil with Benzonatate?

Asked by Barbara On Nov 29, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Nov 29, 2022
Last updated Apr 18, 2024

Key points

  • There is no known drug interaction between DayQuil and benzonatate.

Answer

There is no known interaction between DayQuil and benzonatate (generic for Tessalon Perles). They are considered safe to take together.

DayQuil Contains Multiple Drugs

When considering potential interactions involving DayQuil, it is important to take all of the active ingredients into account.

DayQuil is available in two versions, DayQuil, and DayQuil Severe. Both versions contain:

  • Acetaminophen (analgesic)
  • Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
  • Phenylephrine (nasal decongestant)

The 'Severe' version also contains guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps to thin and loosen mucus secretions.

No ingredient in DayQuil is known to interact with benzonatate.

Benzonatate Information

Benzonatate is a non-narcotic medication, commonly prescribed with antibiotics to decrease the frequency of coughing. It appears to have an anesthetic effect (locally in the respiratory tract) and may also work centrally in the brain to reduce the cough reflex.

Benzonatate has very few potential drug interactions. However, it can cause sedation and dizziness, so should be used cautiously with other drugs that cause similar effects.

Additionally, some studies report that high doses of benzonatate (i.e., overdoses) can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as seizures and cardiac arrest. However, these effects are thought to be very rare if the drug is taken as prescribed and within the FDA-approved dosing limits.

As mentioned, when it comes to the ingredients in DayQuil, there are no reported interactions with benzonatate.

Final Words

I hope you found this helpful! Thanks for reaching out.

References

  • DayQuil Manufacturer Website, Vicks.com
  • Inhibition of cough-reflex sensitivity by benzonatate and guaifenesin in acute viral cough, PubMed
  • Antitussives and substance abuse, PubMed

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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