
Difflam Spray for Sore Throat - 30ml
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Product Summary
Difflam Spray contains the active substance benzydamine hydrochloride and belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Difflam spray works by stopping pain and swelling (inflammation).
It is used to treat many painful conditions of the mouth or throat, including mouth ulcers, teething, sore throat, sore tongue or gums.
Directions
- Adults, adolescents and the elderly: Spray 4-8 puffs onto the sore area every 1.5 hours to 3 hours.
- Children 6-12 years of age: Spray 4 puffs onto the sore area every 1.5 hours to 3 hours.
- Children under 6 years of age: Spray 1 puff for every 4 kg of body weight, up to a maximum of 4 puffs to the sore area every 1.5 hours to 3 hours.
Ingredients
- Active ingredients: Benzydamine hydrochloride 0.15% w/v.
- Also contains ethanol 8.1% w/v FU, glycerol Ph Eur, methyl parahydroxybenzoate Ph Eur, mouthwash flavour, saccharin FU, sodium hydrogen carbonate Ph Eur, polysorbate 20 Ph Eur, purified water Ph Eur.
Warnings and Restrictions
Talk to your doctor, dentist, pharmacist or nurse before using Difflam Spray:
- if you have a history of asthma
- if you are allergic to acetylsalicylic acid or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAID) drugs
Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.
Other medicines and Difflam Spray:
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines.
Pharmacist FAQs Answered
How does Difflam Spray work to relieve a sore throat?
Difflam Spray contains benzydamine hydrochloride, which belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It directly targets the sore or inflamed area in your mouth and throat. Benzydamine reduces inflammation and relieves pain by preventing the release of substances that cause swelling, discomfort, and irritation. This helps to numb the sore area, providing rapid and localised relief, allowing you to feel better quickly without affecting the rest of your body.
How do I use Difflam Spray correctly?
To ensure you get the most benefit from Difflam Spray, follow these guidelines:
- For adults and adolescents, spray 4 to 8 puffs onto the affected area every 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the severity of the pain.
- For children aged 6-12 years, spray 4 puffs every 1.5 to 3 hours. Ensure the child doesn’t swallow or inhale the spray.
- For children under 6 years, use 1 puff per 4 kg of body weight, up to a maximum of 4 puffs per dose. Always consult your pharmacist if you’re unsure about dosing for younger children.
Hold the bottle upright while spraying, aiming it towards the sore part of the throat or mouth. Avoid spraying near the eyes.
Can I eat or drink after using Difflam Spray?
After using Difflam Spray, waiting at least 15 to 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or rinsing your mouth is best. The medicine needs time to form a protective coating over the sore area to provide relief. Eating or drinking too soon may wash away the medication, reducing its effectiveness. Avoid drinking hot liquids immediately after using the spray, as this may irritate your sore throat.
Can Difflam Spray be used with other throat remedies?
Yes, Difflam Spray can be safely combined with other throat lozenges, soothing syrups, or oral painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, it’s essential to avoid using other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) alongside it, as combining multiple NSAIDs can increase the risk of side effects, particularly for people with a history of asthma, stomach ulcers, or kidney problems. If you’re unsure or using any other medications, it’s always a good idea to speak to your pharmacist before combining them.
Is Difflam Spray suitable for children?
Difflam Spray can be used in children, but the correct dosage depends on their age and weight:
- Children aged 6-12 years can use 4 puffs every 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Children under 6 years should receive 1 puff for every 4 kg of body weight, with a maximum of 4 puffs per dose.
It is crucial to supervise children during use to ensure they are not swallowing or inhaling the spray. Always consult with a pharmacist or doctor before using it in younger children or if the child has any existing health conditions.
What are the potential side effects of Difflam Spray?
Most people experience no side effects or only mild ones with Difflam Spray. However, some users may notice:
- There may be temporary irritation, such as a tingling or burning sensation in the mouth or throat, particularly if you use the spray often or in large amounts.
- Dryness or numbness of the mouth or throat is generally harmless and fades as the medication wears off.
- Rare allergic reactions could include swelling of the face or lips, rash, itchiness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience these, stop using the spray immediately and seek urgent medical help.
Although these reactions aren't common, being aware of them is essential. If you’re concerned about any reaction or side effect, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I use Difflam Spray during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, it’s essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam Spray. While benzydamine hydrochloride has not been shown to cause harm in pregnancy, it’s always safest to discuss your circumstances with a healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you're in your first trimester or have underlying health conditions.
In most cases, Difflam Spray should be used for short periods and at lower doses during pregnancy and breastfeeding, only if necessary.
What should I do if I accidentally swallow Difflam Spray?
If you accidentally swallow Difflam Spray, especially in large amounts, it is generally not harmful, but it may cause side effects like stomach upset, nausea, or dizziness. If this happens, rinse your mouth with water and contact your pharmacist or doctor for advice. For children, swallowing a large amount should be considered more serious, and it’s recommended that they contact a healthcare professional immediately.
How should I store Difflam Spray?
To keep Difflam Spray in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Ensure it’s kept out of direct sunlight, and always replace the cap after use to prevent leakage. Keep it out of the reach of children and never use the spray after its expiry date, which is printed on the bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Difflam Spray contains benzydamine hydrochloride, which belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It directly targets the sore or inflamed area in your mouth and throat. Benzydamine reduces inflammation and relieves pain by preventing the release of substances that cause swelling, discomfort, and irritation. This helps to numb the sore area, providing rapid and localised relief, allowing you to feel better quickly without affecting the rest of your body.
To ensure you get the most benefit from Difflam Spray, follow these guidelines:
- For adults and adolescents, spray 4 to 8 puffs onto the affected area every 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the severity of the pain.
- For children aged 6-12 years, spray 4 puffs every 1.5 to 3 hours. Ensure the child doesn’t swallow or inhale the spray.
- For children under 6 years, use 1 puff per 4 kg of body weight, up to a maximum of 4 puffs per dose. Always consult your pharmacist if you’re unsure about dosing for younger children.
Hold the bottle upright while spraying, aiming it towards the sore part of the throat or mouth. Avoid spraying near the eyes.
After using Difflam Spray, waiting at least 15 to 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or rinsing your mouth is best. The medicine needs time to form a protective coating over the sore area to provide relief. Eating or drinking too soon may wash away the medication, reducing its effectiveness. Avoid drinking hot liquids immediately after using the spray, as this may irritate your sore throat.
Yes, Difflam Spray can be safely combined with other throat lozenges, soothing syrups, or oral painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, it’s essential to avoid using other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) alongside it, as combining multiple NSAIDs can increase the risk of side effects, particularly for people with a history of asthma, stomach ulcers, or kidney problems. If you’re unsure or using any other medications, it’s always a good idea to speak to your pharmacist before combining them.
Difflam Spray can be used in children, but the correct dosage depends on their age and weight:
- Children aged 6-12 years can use 4 puffs every 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Children under 6 years should receive 1 puff for every 4 kg of body weight, with a maximum of 4 puffs per dose.
It is crucial to supervise children during use to ensure they are not swallowing or inhaling the spray. Always consult with a pharmacist or doctor before using it in younger children or if the child has any existing health conditions.
Most people experience no side effects or only mild ones with Difflam Spray. However, some users may notice:
- There may be temporary irritation, such as a tingling or burning sensation in the mouth or throat, particularly if you use the spray often or in large amounts.
- Dryness or numbness of the mouth or throat is generally harmless and fades as the medication wears off.
- Rare allergic reactions could include swelling of the face or lips, rash, itchiness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience these, stop using the spray immediately and seek urgent medical help.
Although these reactions aren't common, being aware of them is essential. If you’re concerned about any reaction or side effect, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, it’s essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam Spray. While benzydamine hydrochloride has not been shown to cause harm in pregnancy, it’s always safest to discuss your circumstances with a healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you're in your first trimester or have underlying health conditions.
In most cases, Difflam Spray should be used for short periods and at lower doses during pregnancy and breastfeeding, only if necessary.
If you accidentally swallow Difflam Spray, especially in large amounts, it is generally not harmful, but it may cause side effects like stomach upset, nausea, or dizziness. If this happens, rinse your mouth with water and contact your pharmacist or doctor for advice. For children, swallowing a large amount should be considered more serious, and it’s recommended that they contact a healthcare professional immediately.
To keep Difflam Spray in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Ensure it’s kept out of direct sunlight, and always replace the cap after use to prevent leakage. Keep it out of the reach of children and never use the spray after its expiry date, which is printed on the bottle.