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Benzonatate Exposure Trends and Adverse Events
Pediatrics
|November 15, 2022
Summary
Pediatric benzonatate use is rising, with increased unintentional ingestions in young children and intentional misuse in teens. Awareness of toxic effects is key to reducing benzonatate risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric pharmacology
- Public health surveillance
- Adverse event monitoring
Background:
- Benzonatate, an antitussive medication, can cause adverse events (AEs), including death, in children.
- Understanding recent trends in pediatric benzonatate exposure and its clinical outcomes is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in benzonatate exposure among pediatric patients.
- To identify clinical consequences and patterns of benzonatate misuse in children.
- To compare benzonatate utilization with other antitussive medications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of multiple US data sources (IQVIA, NPDS, NEISS-CADES, FAERS) and medical literature.
- Evaluation of benzonatate exposure trends and medication-related AEs in children.
- Contextual analysis of comparator antitussive medications.
Main Results:
- Pediatric benzonatate prescriptions increased but remained lower than dextromethorphan.
- From 2010-2018, 4689 pediatric benzonatate exposure cases were reported; 80% were single-substance.
- Unintentional exposures (77%) primarily affected children 0-5 years; intentional misuse increased in 10-16 year olds.
Conclusions:
- Rising unintentional benzonatate ingestion in young children and intentional ingestion in adolescents observed.
- Rational prescribing and enhanced provider/caregiver education on benzonatate toxicity are recommended.
- Proactive measures can mitigate risks associated with pediatric benzonatate exposure.
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