nana asked
I am taking benzonatate 200mg for a cough, can I take a ZzzQuil that contains diphenhydramine?
Answer
Benzonatate, an oral prescription antitussive and ZzzQuil, a night time sleep aid containing diphenhydramine do not have any drug interactions and may be taken concurrently if symptoms dictate. However, it is important to take into consideration that they both have the potential to cause drowsiness and sedation so caution should be used in regard to this.
What Is Benzonatate?
Benzonatate is an oral antitussive agent used to suppress cough associated with acute respiratory conditions. Benzonatate should be swallowed whole not crushed dissolved, or chewed as these actions could cause choking or temporary throat numbness.
Common side effects associated with taking benzonatate include but are not limited to:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Headache
- Rash
What Is ZzzQuil?
Zzzquil (diphenhydramine) is a nighttime sleep aid containing the sedating antihistamine diphenhydramine, which is the active ingredient in Benadryl. ZzzQuill may be taken without regard to meals and has an onset of action of around 15-30 minutes. Common side effects of taking ZzzQuill include but are not limited to:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Impaired cognition
Summary
- ZzzQuil can safely be taken with benzonatate but be aware of the additive sedation they can cause.
