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Flurbiprofen lozenges

  • Suck one lozenge every 3-6 hours if needed for a sore throat but do not use more than 5 a day.
  • Move the lozenge around your mouth whilst you are sucking it.
  • Do not take or use any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) while you are using these lozenges.

About flurbiprofen lozenges

Type of medicineNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Used forSore throat
Also calledStrefen®
Available asLozenges

Flurbiprofen belongs to the group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which are used to relieve pain and inflammation. Flurbiprofen lozenges are used to relieve a painful or swollen sore throat.

Before taking flurbiprofen lozenges

Before taking flurbiprofen lozenges make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have a history of stomach or digestive problems including ulcers.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems.
  • If you have a history of allergic disorders.
  • If you have asthma or have had breathing difficulties after taking aspirin or any other NSAID (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, and indometacin).
  • If you have any bleeding or blood clotting problems.
  • If you have a heart condition.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction to this medicine, any other NSAID (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, and indometacin) or any other medicine.
  • Note: these lozenges are not suitable for children under 12 years.

How to take flurbiprofen lozenges

  • Before using these lozenges, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet and take them exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
  • You can suck one flurbiprofen lozenge every three to six hours if needed. Move the lozenge around in your mouth as you allow it to slowly dissolve. Do not use more than five lozenges in any 24-hour period.
  • Do not use flurbiprofen lozenges for more than three days unless you have been directed to do so by your doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If your symptoms do not begin to improve within three days or if they get worse, check with your pharmacist, doctor or dentist.
  • Do not take or use any other NSAIDs while you are taking flurbiprofen lozenges.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take alongside flurbiprofen.

Can flurbiprofen lozenges cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Mouth ulcersMove the lozenges around your mouth as they are dissolving
Gastric irritation such as indigestion, feeling or being sick, diarrhoeaTry sucking the lozenges after a small snack or milky drink
Dizziness or problems with eyesightMake sure your reactions and sight are normal before driving or operating machinery
Problems with taste, irritation in the mouth, skin rash or skin irritationThese are usually mild and do not last long but, if you are concerned, ask your pharmacist for advice

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store flurbiprofen lozenges

  • 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


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 57th Edition (March 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009DocID: 3723DocRef: dils3711Last Reviewed: 15 Sep 2009Version: 22
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