Difflam Spray is an over-the-counter medication that contains the active ingredient benzydamine hydrochloride. It is an oral spray that is often used to treat sore throats, painful gums, or mouth ulcers. The spray works by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area.
To use Difflam Spray, one must shake the bottle well and spray it directly onto the sore area of the mouth or throat. The recommended dosage for adults, adolescents, and the elderly is four to eight puffs every 1.5 to 3 hours. For children between the ages of six and 12, four puffs should be administered every 1.5 to 3 hours, and for children under six years of age, one puff should be administered for every four kilograms of body weight.
While Difflam Spray is generally safe and effective, it may cause some side effects such as a burning or stinging sensation in the mouth or throat, dry mouth, or altered taste sensation. It is important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use. If symptoms persist or worsen, one should seek medical advice.
Key Takeaways
- Difflam Spray contains benzydamine hydrochloride and is used to treat sore throats, painful gums, or mouth ulcers.
- The spray works by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area.
- It is important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use, as Difflam Spray may cause some side effects.
What is Difflam Spray
Difflam Spray is a medication that contains the active ingredient benzydamine hydrochloride. It is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat.
The spray is available in pharmacies and can be used to treat various conditions, including sore throat, mouth ulcers, and painful gums. It is also commonly used after dental procedures to reduce pain and swelling.
Difflam Spray works by stopping the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. By reducing the production of these chemicals, Difflam Spray can help to reduce pain and swelling in the affected area.
The medication comes in a metered dose pump spray, which allows for easy and accurate dosing. The active ingredient, benzydamine hydrochloride, is a locally acting analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent that acts directly on the affected area to relieve pain and inflammation.
Overall, Difflam Spray is a safe and effective medication that can provide quick relief from pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or on the packaging to ensure safe and effective use of the medication.
How Difflam Spray Works
Active Ingredient
Difflam Spray contains the active ingredient benzydamine hydrochloride, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Benzydamine hydrochloride is a locally acting analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent that is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat.
Mechanism of Action
Difflam Spray works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Benzydamine hydrochloride blocks the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is responsible for the production of prostaglandins. By blocking COX, benzydamine hydrochloride reduces the amount of prostaglandins produced, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.
Difflam Spray also has a local anaesthetic effect, which helps to numb the area and provide relief from pain. The anaesthetic effect is due to the action of benzydamine hydrochloride on the nerve endings in the mouth and throat.
Overall, Difflam Spray provides fast and effective relief from pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including mouth ulcers, teething, sore throat, sore tongue or gums, and discomfort associated with dentures or dental work.
Uses of Difflam Spray
Difflam Spray is an oral spray that contains benzydamine hydrochloride, which belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is a locally acting analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatment for the throat and mouth. Difflam Spray works by stopping pain and swelling (inflammation). It is used to treat many painful conditions of the mouth or throat.
Sore Throat
Difflam Spray is often used to treat sore throats. It can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the throat, making it easier to swallow and speak. The active ingredient in Difflam Spray, benzydamine hydrochloride, works by blocking the production of chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
Mouth Ulcers
Difflam Spray is also used to treat mouth ulcers. Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores that can develop inside the mouth. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Difflam Spray can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers, making it easier to eat and drink.
Post Dental Surgery
Difflam Spray is often used to relieve pain and inflammation after dental surgery. Dental surgery can be painful and can cause swelling in the mouth and throat. Difflam Spray can help to reduce pain and inflammation, making it easier to eat and drink after surgery.
Overall, Difflam Spray is an effective treatment for a variety of painful conditions of the mouth and throat. It can help to reduce pain and inflammation, making it easier to eat, drink, and speak. However, it is important to use Difflam Spray as directed by a healthcare professional to avoid any adverse effects.
How to Use Difflam Spray
Difflam Spray is a medication used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with mouth ulcers, sore throats, teething, sore gums or tongue, and discomfort associated with dentures or dental work. It contains benzydamine hydrochloride, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and swelling.
To use Difflam Spray, follow these simple steps:
- Shake the bottle well before use.
- Hold the spray upright and remove the cap.
- Point the nozzle towards the affected area in the mouth or throat.
- Press the spray pump to release the medicine.
- After use, replace the cap.
The dosage of Difflam Spray varies depending on the age of the patient and the severity of the condition. The recommended dosage for adults, adolescents and the elderly is 4-8 puffs directly to the sore area every 1.5 to 3 hours. For children aged 6-12 years, the recommended dosage is 4 puffs directly to the sore area every 1.5 to 3 hours. For children under 6 years of age, the recommended dosage is 1 puff for every 4 kilograms of body weight to the sore area every 1.5 to 3 hours, up to a maximum of 4 puffs every 3 hours.
It is important to note that Difflam Spray should not be used for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. If symptoms persist after 7 days of treatment, seek medical advice. Difflam Spray should not be used by people who are allergic to benzydamine hydrochloride or any of the other ingredients in the spray.
In summary, Difflam Spray is a useful medication for relieving pain and inflammation associated with various conditions in the mouth and throat. It is easy to use and has a recommended dosage based on age and severity of the condition. However, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not use the spray for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
Possible Side Effects
Difflam spray is generally considered safe to use, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects of Difflam spray are numbness and a stinging feeling in the mouth. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own after a short time.
Less commonly, some people may experience more serious side effects. If you experience any of the following side effects, stop using Difflam spray and seek medical attention immediately:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Rash, itching or hives
- Feeling faint or dizzy
These side effects are rare, but they can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
It is also possible to have an allergic reaction to Difflam spray. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to benzydamine hydrochloride or any of the other ingredients in Difflam spray, you should not use this medicine.
In general, Difflam spray is a safe and effective treatment for sore throat, teething, and other conditions. However, as with all medicines, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects and to seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Precautions and Warnings
Before using Difflam Spray, it is important to read the patient information leaflet carefully and follow the instructions provided. It is also important to talk to a doctor, pharmacist or nurse before using Difflam Spray if you:
- Have a history of asthma
- Are allergic to acetylsalicylic acid or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs
If any of these apply, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam Spray.
Difflam Spray should not be used by children under the age of 12 years. It should also be used with caution in elderly patients and those with liver or kidney problems.
If you experience any side effects after using Difflam Spray, stop using it immediately and talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Some common side effects of Difflam Spray include:
- Dry mouth
- Tingling sensation in the mouth or throat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Skin rash or itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
In rare cases, Difflam Spray can cause a severe allergic reaction. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a severe skin rash, seek medical attention immediately.
Difflam Spray may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before using Difflam Spray.
Overall, Difflam Spray is a safe and effective medication when used correctly. However, it is important to follow the precautions and warnings provided to avoid any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
Interactions with Other Medications
Difflam Spray is a medication that contains benzydamine hydrochloride. It is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth, throat, or musculoskeletal system. As with any medication, it is important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications.
According to the British National Formulary (BNF), Difflam Spray has 110 known interactions with other medications. Some of the most significant interactions are highlighted below:
- Acalabrutinib: Both benzydamine and acalabrutinib can increase the risk of bleeding. This interaction is considered severe.
- Acenocoumarol and Warfarin: Benzydamine can increase the anticoagulant effect of these medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Aspirin: The use of aspirin with benzydamine can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Methotrexate: Benzydamine can increase the toxicity of methotrexate, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
- Zidovudine: Benzydamine can decrease the effectiveness of zidovudine, a medication used to treat HIV.
It is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies. They can advise you on whether it is safe to use Difflam Spray with your current medications.
If you experience any side effects or have concerns about potential interactions, seek medical advice immediately.
Storage and Disposal
Difflam Spray should be stored below 25°C and protected from light. It should be kept out of the reach and sight of children. The expiry date of the medicine is printed on the label or packaging. Do not use Difflam Spray after the expiry date as it may not work as well.
If you have any unused or expired Difflam Spray, it should be returned to a pharmacy for safe disposal. Do not dispose of the spray in household waste or down the sink or toilet. This is to avoid harm to the environment and to prevent accidental ingestion by animals or children.
It is important to always follow the instructions given by the healthcare professional or pharmacist regarding the use, storage, and disposal of Difflam Spray. If you have any questions or concerns, you should contact your healthcare professional or pharmacist for advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Difflam spray used for?
Difflam spray is a locally acting analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatment for the throat and mouth. It is particularly useful for relieving pain in traumatic conditions such as following tonsillectomy or the use of a naso-gastric tube, dental surgery, or in the treatment of sore throat and mouth ulcers.
Is Difflam spray an antibiotic?
No, Difflam spray is not an antibiotic. It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by stopping pain and swelling.
How quickly does Difflam spray work?
Difflam spray starts to work within a few minutes of application. However, the duration of its effect may vary depending on the severity of the condition being treated.
Does Difflam spray treat sore throat?
Yes, Difflam spray can be used to treat sore throat. It works by reducing inflammation and relieving pain in the affected area.
What are the side effects of Difflam spray?
Like all medicines, Difflam spray can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects include a burning sensation in the mouth, dry mouth, and altered taste sensation. Rare side effects include allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, and difficulty breathing.
What are the ingredients in Difflam spray?
Difflam spray contains the active ingredient benzydamine hydrochloride, which belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It also contains other inactive ingredients, including ethanol, glycerol, saccharin sodium, and mint flavoring.
Note: Always read the patient information leaflet before using Difflam spray, and if in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.
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