The Risks of Combining Benzonatate and Nyquil for Cough and Cold Symptoms

The Interactions Between Benzonatate and Nyquil

Many people turn to over-the-counter medications like Nyquil to help relieve cold and flu symptoms. However, it's important to be aware of potential interactions if you are taking other medications. Benzonatate and Nyquil are two common medications that are often used together, but there are some risks to be aware of.

What is Benzonatate?

Benzonatate, sold under the brand name Tessalon Perles, is a prescription medication used to relieve coughs. It works by numbing the stretch receptors in the lungs, which helps prevent coughing spasms. Benzonatate capsules should not be crushed or chewed, as this will cause a numbing effect in the mouth and throat.

Benzonatate is only intended for short-term cough relief. It does not treat the underlying cause of the cough. Some of the side effects of benzonatate may include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, rash, constipation, and difficulty urinating.

What is Nyquil?

Nyquil is an over-the-counter medication manufactured by Vicks. It contains the following active ingredients:

• Acetaminophen - a pain reliever and fever reducer
• Dextromethorphan - a cough suppressant
• Doxylamine succinate - an antihistamine that reduces runny nose and sneezing

Nyquil is intended to relieve common cold and flu symptoms so you can get restful sleep. Some potential side effects of Nyquil include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

Interactions Between Benzonatate and Nyquil

While Benzonatate and Nyquil serve different purposes, combining them can increase the risk of certain side effects. Here are some potential issues to be aware of:

Excessive Drowsiness

Both Benzonatate and the doxylamine in Nyquil can cause drowsiness as a side effect. Taking them together amplifies this effect, which can impair your functioning. It's best to avoid driving or operating machinery when taking both of these medications.

Breathing Difficulties

Nyquil contains dextromethorphan, which acts on the brain to suppress coughing. Benzonatate also suppresses coughing. Combining these two medications can overly depress your cough reflex. This could lead to mucus buildup and make it difficult to clear your airways. Seek medical attention if you experience any breathing difficulties.

Urinary Retention

Both Benzonatate and NyQuil list urinary retention or difficulty urinating as potential side effects. The anticholinergic effects of these drugs can cause bladder muscle relaxation and urinary retention in some people. Taking Benzonatate and Nyquil together increases the anticholinergic burden and risk of this side effect.

Constipation

Constipation is another common side effect of both Benzonatate and Nyquil, particularly the dextromethorphan component. Combining these medications can exacerbate constipation. Stay hydrated and consider a stool softener or laxative if needed.

Heart Issues

In rare cases, dextromethorphan (found in Nyquil) has been associated with heart problems when combined with benzonatate. Using these medications together may increase the risk of rapid heartbeat and other heart issues.

Severe Allergic Reactions

There have been a few case reports of people having severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, after taking benzonatate and Nyquil together. Discontinue use and seek emergency care if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Who Should Avoid Taking Benzonatate and Nyquil Together?

Certain people are at increased risk of complications and should avoid using Benzonatate and Nyquil at the same time. This includes:

• People over age 75
• Individuals with kidney or liver impairment
• People with heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, or COPD
• Those taking MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, or other anticholinergic drugs
• Children and adolescents under age 18

Safe Use of Benzonatate and Nyquil

If you need to take Benzonatate and Nyquil, here are some tips for doing so more safely:

• Take the lowest effective dose of each medication
• Allow sufficient time in between doses of each medication
• Stay hydrated and maintain good bowel and bladder function
• Avoid driving and machinery operation when taking both medications
• Have someone monitor you for side effects like excessive sedation
• Talk to your doctor about any side effects or breathing issues

Your doctor may recommend adjusting the dose of one or both medications or avoiding combining them if you are at higher risk of complications.

Alternatives to Taking Benzonatate and Nyquil Together

If you want to avoid potential interactions between Benzonatate and Nyquil, some alternatives may include:

• Taking Benzonatate and a non-drowsy cold medication like Dayquil
• Using a different cough suppressant like dextromethorphan alone
• Substituting Benzonatate for an expectorant like guaifenesin if cough is productive
• Treating symptoms individually with medications containing single active ingredients
• Using cough drops or throat lozenges instead of Benzonatate
• Trying natural cough remedies like honey, steam, or throat soothing teas

Discuss your symptoms and medication options with your pharmacist or doctor to find the right combination for you. Be sure to let them know if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or take any other medications.

The Bottom Line

Benzonatate and Nyquil are both useful medications, but combining them does come with potential risks. Excessive drowsiness, urinary retention, breathing issues, constipation, and heart problems are possible when taking these drugs together. Certain high-risk groups like the elderly should avoid using Benzonatate and Nyquil concurrently. If you need relief from a cough along with cold symptoms, consider alternatives to avoid interactions. However, with proper precautions, some people can safely use Benzonatate and Nyquil together under medical supervision.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.