Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Benzonatate 100mg Capsule | $4 – $12 | $0 – $5 |
| Benzonatate 200mg Capsule | $6 – $20 | $0 – $8 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Tier 1 generic — widely covered; commonly prescribed cough suppressant
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Benzonatate costs between $4 and $20 for a typical prescription without insurance. It is one of the most commonly prescribed cough medications.
Benzonatate numbs the stretch receptors in the lungs and airways, reducing the cough reflex. It is similar to a local anesthetic and works differently from other cough suppressants.
No — benzonatate capsules must be swallowed whole. Chewing or dissolving them can cause numbness of the mouth and throat, which can lead to choking and serious adverse effects.