A 12-hour anti-tussive modified release solid tablet or capsule is described which comprises a benzonatate in a matrix with a sufficient amount of one or more pharmaceutically acceptable modified release pH-independent, substances to provide a 12-hour modified release profile to the benzonatate, wherein there is substantially no benzonatate release from the tablet or capsule in the buccal cavity and no more than about 25% release of the benzonatate within 1 hour as determined in an in vitro dissolution assay. The modified release may be provided by (a) a high melt temperature, water-insoluble wax or waxy substance, (b) a low viscosity hydrophilic polymer such a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, (c) a reverse enteric coating, or combinations thereof. The benzonatate may be in an adsorbate with a silico or silicate or in a complex with a weak acidic ion exchange resin complex.
