Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

Benzydamine is a type of NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory) that helps to reduce swelling and has anaesthetic (numbing) effect for treating sore throat and painful mouth conditions (due to mouth or throat surgery). 

How should I take or use this medication?

• This medication is available in different formulations.
• It comes in the form of medicated lozenges, solution (used as mouthwash or gargle), gel and throat spray. Do check with your healthcare professional for the dose and frequency of usage or application as well as maximum amount to use in a day.
• Some products have additional ingredients such as antibacterial and numbing agents.
• Do not swallow the gargle or mouthwash.

Difflam lozenges

• Suck one lozenge as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• You may take this medication with or without food.
• Repeat every 2 to 3 hours as needed, maximum of 12 lozenges per day.

Difflam throat spray

• Use the throat spray as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• Spray onto the sore/inflamed area and swallow gently. Repeat every 1.5 hours to 3 hours as needed.
• Do not use the spray in or near your eyes. If any spray gets in your eyes, wash immediately with cold water.

Difflam Gel

• Apply roughly 1 cm of mouth gel with your finger and gently massage onto the sore area every 2-3 hours, up to a maximum of 12 times per day.
•  Do not eat or drink for 15 minutes after applying.

Difflam gargle

• Should generally be used undiluted, but if stinging occurs, it may be diluted with water.
• Gargle using the gargle solution according to the instructions on the medication label for at least 30 seconds, or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. 
• Repeat every 1.5 hours to 3 hours as needed.
• Do not swallow the gargle solution.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take or use a dose, take or use it as soon as you remember. Then take or use your next dose at the usual time. Do not take or use two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients found in the medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

What are some common side effects of this medication?

•  Numbing effect on throat or mouth, soreness of the tongue, mouth discomfort 
  • Do not consume hot food or beverages directly after using the medication 
• Burning or stinging sensation in the mouth

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

NA

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on November 2023