Benzydamine
About Benzydamine
Benzydamine is an oral rinse used to relieve pain, soreness, and swelling in the mouth and throat. It is commonly suggested to treat discomfort caused by sore throats, mouth ulcers, teething, or dental procedures. This medicine works directly at the site of pain to soothe irritated tissues and make swallowing easier.
To get the most benefit, you should use Benzydamine consistently and exactly as recommended by your health professional. It is usually used every 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the severity of your symptoms, and it is best used after meals so it does not get washed away by food or drink. To support your recovery, try to avoid eating very hot, spicy, or highly acidic foods while your mouth is healing.
Most people can use this medicine without any major issues, though you might notice some mild stinging, dryness, or a temporary numb feeling in your mouth. These local effects are normal and usually fade quickly. However, if you develop severe burning, swelling of your face, or difficulty breathing, stop using the product immediately and contact a doctor.
Before you start using Benzydamine, tell your doctor if you have a history of asthma or allergies to other pain-relieving medicines. Do not take this if you are allergic to any of the ingredients listed on the product packaging.
Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol immediately after using this medicine, as these habits can dry out your throat and reduce the soothing effects of the treatment. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are caring for an elderly patient, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to make sure this is the right choice for your situation.
Uses of Benzydamine
Medicinal Benefits
Benzydamine helps relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat, making everyday activities more comfortable.
The following are the benefits of Benzydamine:
- Helps relieve pain and soreness in the mouth and throat.
- Reduces swelling and irritation in the affected area.
- Improves comfort while eating, drinking, and speaking.
- Supports healing after dental procedures or minor mouth injuries.
- Provides fast, targeted relief at the site of discomfort.
- Promotes better daily comfort during recovery.
Directions for Use
- Benzydamine is for topical oral use only.
- It is recommended to use Benzydamine every 1.5-3 hours or as directed by your doctor.
- Check the label for directions before using Benzydamine.
- Pour 15ml of Benzydamine into the measuring cup provided with the pack. Rinse or gargle the mouthwash for 20 to 30 seconds, then spit it out.
- Do not swallow the mouthwash.
- After use, rinse the measuring cup and store it safely for your next dose.
Storage
Side Effects of Benzydamine
Common Side Effects (Usually mild):
- A mild stinging or burning sensation in the mouth or throat
- Temporary numbness or tingling of the tongue and cheeks
- Dry mouth or throat
- A slight, temporary change in your sense of taste
Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away):
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as a skin rash, itching, or hives
- Swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat
- Sudden difficulty breathing, wheezing, or tightness in your chest
- Severe, worsening irritation or burning in your mouth that does not go away
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Spit out after gargling: Gargle with the medicine as directed and then spit it out. Do not swallow the liquid.
- Check the solution before use: Make sure the solution is clear and looks normal before each use. Do not use it if it appears cloudy, has changed colour, or contains floating particles.
- Avoid contact with your eyes: Take care not to get the medicine in your eyes. If this happens, rinse your eyes immediately with plenty of cool water.
- Monitor your symptoms: Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of regular use or if they become worse.
- Be careful while your mouth is numb: Avoid eating or drinking very hot food or drinks until the numbness wears off. This helps prevent burns or accidentally biting your tongue or the inside of your mouth.
- Allergy to the medicine: Do not use Benzydamine if you are allergic to Benzydamine or any of the other ingredients in this medicine.
- History of NSAID allergy: Avoid using this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Not suitable for children: Benzydamine is not recommended for children younger than 12 years.
- Check the ingredient list carefully: Some brands contain sweeteners or other inactive ingredients, such as saccharin, which may not be suitable for people with rare inherited conditions like phenylketonuria (PKU). Always read the product label before use.
Drug Interactions
- Benzydamine has very few clinically significant drug interactions because it acts mainly where it is applied. However, if you are also using other medicated mouthwashes, antiseptic rinses, antifungal oral gels, or topical oral anaesthetics, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether they should be used at different times. Spacing these products apart may help reduce irritation and ensure each medicine works effectively.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionAlcohol should not be taken while you are taking Benzydamine as it may lead to unpleasant side effects.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorThe safety and efficacy of Benzydamine are not studied in pregnant women. So, take Benzydamine only if advised by a doctor.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorThe safety and efficacy of Benzydamine are not studied in breastfeeding women. So, take Benzydamine only if recommended by a doctor.
Driving
safeBenzydamine does not interfere with the ability to drive. If you feel dizzy or drowsy, then do not drive or operate any machinery.
Liver
consult your doctorBenzydamine can be given in case of any liver impairment or problem. However, please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Kidney
consult your doctorBenzydamine can be given in case of any kidney impairment or problem. However, please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Children
unsafeBenzydamine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Choose soft foods: Eat soft, smooth foods such as yoghurt, pureed soups, and mashed vegetables to reduce irritation and make eating more comfortable.
- Avoid irritating foods: Stay away from very hot, spicy, salty, or acidic foods, as they can worsen pain and delay the healing of mouth sores.
- Stay well hydrated: Drink plenty of cool or lukewarm water throughout the day to keep your mouth and throat moist and reduce dryness.
- Avoid tobacco products: Do not smoke, vape, or use other tobacco products, as they can irritate your mouth and throat and slow the healing process.
Special Advise
- Do not use the Benzydamine mouthwash continuously for more than 7 days unless recommended by your doctor or dentist.
- Do not swallow Benzydamine and avoid touching eyes while using it.
- Keep your lips hydrated with proper lip care to prevent cracking and drying.
- Preferably, eat sugar-free chewing gum to keep the mouth and throat moist.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Pain: It is a symptom triggered by the nervous system, causing uncomfortable sensations in the body. Pain may be dull or sharp; it might be constant or may come and go. The tolerance level of pain might vary from person to person. Pain can be generalised (overall body aches) or localised (affecting a specific area of the body). Pain can be considered a good thing, as it signals that something is wrong in the body and helps diagnose the condition. Common causes of pain include headaches, muscle strain, cramps, cuts, bone fractures, arthritis, and stomach aches.
Oral Mucositis: It is tissue swelling in the mouth due to radiation therapy or chemotherapy (cancer treatment). The most common symptoms include mouth pain, mouth sores, infection, and bleeding (if you are getting chemotherapy).
Mouth Sores: Also known as canker sores. It is normally small and painful lesions that develop in any soft tissue of the mouth or at the base of your gums. It can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable. Generally, it takes 1-2 weeks for it to heal. It can be an indication of mouth cancer.
FAQs
Benzydamine is primarily used to relieve pain, discomfort, and inflammation of the mouth, gums, and throat. It is used to treat oral mucositis (inflammation due to radiotherapy or chemotherapy) and mouth sores.
Benzydamine belongs to a group of medicines known as painkillers, containing Benzydramine, which works by blocking the release of chemicals (prostaglandins) responsible for pain sensation and inflammation. Hence, it helps relieve pain, discomfort, and symptoms of inflammation, such as redness, swelling, or a burning sensation.
While using Benzydamine, make sure you do not swallow it. Be careful not to touch your eyes or splash mouthwash into them. If you get it in your eyewash it with cold water repeatedly. Also, do not use Benzydamine for more than 7 days in a row unless recommended by your doctor.
If you miss a dose of Benzydamine, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it's almost time for the next dose, do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Benzydamine may cause side effects such as a burning sensation and skin irritation at the site of application in some cases. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
No, you should not swallow Benzydamine. After gargling or swishing the liquid around your mouth for the recommended time, spit it out completely. If you accidentally swallow a small amount, it is usually not harmful, but swallowing larger amounts requires medical attention. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting Benzydamine. They will help you evaluate whether the benefits of using this medicine outweigh any potential risks to your baby.
The frequency depends on your specific symptoms and what your doctor has recommended. It is often used every 1.5 to 3 hours for acute throat or mouth pain, but you should always refer to the instructions on your suggested label. Talk to your doctor for personalised guidance.
Benzydamine is generally not recommended for children younger than 12 years because there is limited information on its safety and effectiveness in this age group. Younger children may also be more likely to accidentally swallow the medicine instead of gargling or spitting it out, which can increase the risk of unwanted side effects.
No, Benzydamine does not typically cause drowsiness. Because it acts locally on the tissues of your mouth and throat, very little of the active medicine enters your bloodstream. If you experience unusual tiredness, talk to your doctor.
If you have a history of asthma, you should use Benzydamine with caution. Some anti-inflammatory substances can trigger bronchospasms or wheezing in sensitive individuals. Talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
Yes, in most cases, Benzydamine can be safely used alongside oral pain relievers like paracetamol, as it works locally rather than throughout the entire body. However, always check with your pharmacist or doctor to make sure your specific combination of medicines is safe.
A temporary numbing sensation in your mouth and tongue is a normal, expected effect of this medicine. It should wear off shortly after use. Avoid consuming hot foods or chewing gum while your mouth is numb to prevent accidental injury. If the numbness persists for a long time, talk to your doctor.
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