To answer the question you asked, my pulmonologist allows me to take Benzonatate for cough relief during exacerbations (like a recent Serratia Marcecsens infection). I have BE and lab confirmed Mycobacterium Abscessus based on Bronchoscopy lavage.

The idea was to provide symptom relief to permit sleep and reduce serious coughing spasms during day.

I used it daily for a few weeks until the Serratia infection cleared up then discontinued. I would use it again in the future if the situation warranted it.

I now do airway clearance daily including nebulizing 7% saline and using an Aerobika. This is to manage the BE and reduce chances of new infections.

So that's my answer to your question. My pulmonologist allows Benzonatate even though we all know I need to cough regularly for clearance but I also needed sleep and relief from spasmodic cough attacks. My ID and PCP supported the idea of Benzonatate when needed.