Flurbiprofen Lozenges

About flurbiprofen lozenges

This belongs to the group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Flurbiprofen lozenges are used to relieve a painful sore throat.

It is also sometimes known as: Strefen. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking flurbiprofen lozenges

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from rhinitis, asthma or breathing problems
• if you suffer from kidney, heart or liver problems
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure)
• if you have ever had an unusual reaction from taking aspirin or NSAIDs. Other NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac.
• if you have diabetes
• if you have, or have ever had a blood clotting disorder
• if you suffer from indigestion, heartburn or any other digestive or bowel problems.
• if you have ever suffered from a stomach ulcer or have been experiencing black or bloody stools
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to take flurbiprofen lozenges

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before starting treatment.
• Allow one flurbiprofen lozenge to dissolve in the mouth every three to six hours. Do not use more than five lozenges in 24 hours.
• Do not use flurbiprofen lozenges for more than three days, unless directed by your doctor.
• Flurbiprofen lozenges are for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible even if empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Flurbiprofen can occasionally cause mouth ulcers. If you experience this, try moving the lozenge around the mouth, rather than keeping it in one place.
• If your symptoms do not begin to improve within three days or if they get worse, check with your pharmacist, doctor or dentist.
• Flurbiprofen lozenges are not recommended for children under twelve years of age.
• Do not take any other NSAIDs while using flurbiprofen lozenges. Before taking any 'over the counter' medicines check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside flurbiprofen.
• Flurbiprofen lozenges may cause dizziness and problems with vision. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving or operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were dizzy.

Can flurbiprofen lozenges cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Problems with taste, mouth ulcers, tummy pain, feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, indigestion, asthma, breathing problems, itching, rash, dizziness, visual problems or fluid retention.

Important: If you experience swelling of the lips, mouth and throat; wheezing or breathing problems; yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes; a high temperature with a sore throat or if you experience black or bloody stools or blood in the urine stop taking flurbiprofen immediately and consult your doctor or accident and emergency department of your local hospital as soon as possible.

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store flurbiprofen lozenges

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/09/2005