About benzydamine

Benzydamine reduces pain and inflammation associated with painful mouth and throat conditions. It works by stopping the formation of prostaglandins which are chemicals that are produced where there is inflammation. Reducing these chemicals, reduces the discomfort associated with a sore throat or mouth, and eases pain.

Benzydamine is available on prescription or you can buy it at pharmacies, without a prescription.

Before using benzydamine

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking benzydamine it is important that your doctor, dentist or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to use benzydamine

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about the specific brand of benzydamine you have been given, and a full list of possible side-effects from using it.
• If you are using the oral rinse, use 15 ml (half a measure) as a mouthwash every 1½-3 hours to help ease your pain. After you have gargled with it, spit it out - try not to swallow benzydamine. If you find the mouthwash causes some stinging, dilute it with the same amount of water before you use it. This oral rinse is not suitable for children under 12 years of age to use.
• If you are using the spray, use 4-8 sprays on to the sore area every 1½-3 hours. This is the dose for adults. If you are giving benzydamine to your child, check the label carefully to make sure you are using the correct number of sprays for the age of your child.
  
  How to use the spray:
  • Hold the bottle upright.
  • Lift the nozzle of the spray away from the container until it is horizontal.
  • If it is the first time you have used the spray, point the nozzle away from you and press down on the green plunger on the top of the container until you see a fine mist. The spray is now ready to use.
  • Aim the spray at the sore area of your mouth or throat and press down on the green plunger to release one spray. Repeat this step to give the correct number of sprays.
  • After each use, push the nozzle of the spray back down against the container to store it until next time.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You should expect the soreness to have eased within seven days of using benzydamine. If there is no improvement after this time, see your doctor for advice.
• If you are using the spray, be careful not to get it into your eyes. If this does happen, rinse it out of your eye with water.

Can benzydamine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store benzydamine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines