Doctors’ Warning: The Serious Risks of Mixing Benzonatate and Nyquil
Are you suffering from a cough and cold and tempted to reach for a combination of medications like benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) and Nyquil? While both medications are commonly used to alleviate cold and cough symptoms, healthcare professionals strongly advise against mixing them. Combining these drugs can potentially lead to dangerous side effects and health complications. This article explores the risks associated with this combination, providing a comprehensive understanding to help you make informed decisions about your health.
Understanding the Medications: Benzonatate and Nyquil
Before delving into the dangers of mixing these medications, it’s crucial to understand what each one does:
- Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles): This prescription medication is a non-narcotic cough suppressant. It works by numbing the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways, reducing the urge to cough. It’s often prescribed for dry coughs.
- Nyquil: This over-the-counter (OTC) medication comes in various formulations (Nyquil Cold & Flu, Nyquil Severe Cold & Flu) and typically contains a combination of ingredients aimed at treating multiple cold and flu symptoms. Common ingredients include:
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant): Similar function as benzonatate, though with different mechanisms.
- Acetaminophen (pain reliever and fever reducer): Used to manage headaches, body aches, and fever.
- Doxylamine succinate (antihistamine): Helps with sneezing, runny nose, and can induce drowsiness.
- Phenylephrine (decongestant): Reduces nasal congestion.
- Alcohol (sometimes included): Used as a solvent and can enhance the sedative effects.
The Risks of Combining Benzonatate and Nyquil
The primary concern with mixing benzonatate and Nyquil stems from the overlapping effects and potential for increased side effects. Here’s a breakdown of the key risks:
Overdose of Cough Suppressants: Both benzonatate and Nyquil can contain cough suppressants (dextromethorphan in Nyquil). Combining them increases the risk of overdosing on these substances. This can lead to:
- Drowsiness and Sedation: Excess cough suppressants can cause excessive drowsiness, making it difficult to function and increasing the risk of accidents.
- Difficulty Breathing: In severe cases, respiratory depression (slowed or shallow breathing) can occur, requiring medical intervention.
- Seizures: High doses of dextromethorphan, especially, can trigger seizures.
Increased Sedative Effects: Nyquil, due to the presence of doxylamine succinate (an antihistamine) and sometimes alcohol, has sedative properties. Benzonatate can also cause drowsiness. Combining the two greatly amplifies this sedative effect. This can lead to:
- Impaired Coordination and Judgment: Making it dangerous to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring alertness.
- Increased Risk of Falls: Especially in older adults.
- Severe Respiratory Depression: In extreme cases, the combined sedation can suppress breathing to a dangerous level.
Acetaminophen Overdose: Certain Nyquil formulations contain acetaminophen. Taking Nyquil with other acetaminophen-containing products or exceeding the recommended Nyquil dosage can lead to an acetaminophen overdose, potentially causing:
- Liver Damage: Acetaminophen overdose is a leading cause of liver failure. Symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, and nausea.
- Death: In severe cases, acetaminophen overdose can be fatal.
Drug Interactions: The combination of ingredients in Nyquil can interact with other medications you may be taking, leading to unpredictable and potentially dangerous side effects. This risk is amplified when combined with a prescription medication like benzonatate.
What to Do If You’ve Accidentally Mixed These Medications
If you’ve accidentally taken benzonatate and Nyquil, it’s crucial to:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Call emergency services (911 in the US) or go to the nearest emergency room, especially if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe drowsiness or confusion
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting
- Changes in heart rate or rhythm
Inform Healthcare Professionals: Tell the medical personnel which medications you took and the time you took them.
Monitor Your Symptoms: Even if you feel okay initially, carefully monitor yourself for any adverse effects.
Safe Alternatives and Recommendations
Instead of mixing benzonatate and Nyquil, consider these safer alternatives:
- Consult Your Doctor or Pharmacist: They can recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your symptoms and medical history.
- Take Medications as Prescribed: Always follow the instructions on the prescription label or medication packaging.
- Use Single-Ingredient Medications: If possible, use single-ingredient medications to treat specific symptoms. For example, if you only have a cough, a cough suppressant may be sufficient.
- Consider Non-Pharmacological Remedies: Rest, hydration, a humidifier, and soothing throat lozenges can help alleviate symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I take Nyquil if I have a prescription for benzonatate?
No. You should not take Nyquil while you are taking benzonatate unless specifically instructed by your doctor. The combination poses significant risks.
2. What if I take benzonatate and then decide to take Nyquil a few hours later?
It is still not advised. Both medications can have lingering effects, increasing the risks of interaction. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the appropriate waiting time.
3. Are there any over-the-counter medications that are safe to take with benzonatate?
This depends on your individual health and other medications you may be taking. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining any medications, including OTC drugs, with benzonatate.
4. How long should I wait after taking Nyquil before I can take benzonatate?
It’s best to avoid taking benzonatate and Nyquil at all. If you’ve taken Nyquil, consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine the appropriate waiting period before using benzonatate, if at all.
5. What are the symptoms of a benzonatate overdose?
Symptoms of a benzonatate overdose can include drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Conclusion
Mixing benzonatate and Nyquil is a risky practice that can lead to serious health complications. The potential for overdosing on cough suppressants, increased sedation, and acetaminophen toxicity far outweighs any perceived benefit. Always prioritize your health by consulting with a healthcare professional before taking any new medications or combining existing ones. By understanding the risks and following medical advice, you can safely manage your cold and cough symptoms and protect your well-being.
