Difflam Sore Throat Spray

Difflam throat spray contains benzydamine, an anti-inflammatory medicine that relieves the pain and discomfort of a sore throat and sore mouth. It is often used for sore throats linked to colds and flu, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, and irritation after dental treatment. It eases symptoms but does not treat the underlying infection.

Difflam usually begins to soothe the throat within a few minutes of spraying, with the numbing and anti-inflammatory effect lasting a couple of hours. You can repeat the dose every 1.5 to 3 hours as needed. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, speak to a pharmacist or your GP.

Adults and children aged 12 and over use 4 to 8 sprays directed onto the sore area every 1.5 to 3 hours as required. Children aged 6 to 12 use 4 sprays every 1.5 to 3 hours. Do not use more than the recommended number of sprays, and do not use it for longer than 7 days unless a pharmacist or prescriber advises you to.

Both contain the same active ingredient, benzydamine hydrochloride 0.15%, and work in the same way. The spray is applied directly onto the sore area and comes in a compact 30ml bottle, which suits people who find gargling difficult or who want relief while out of the house. The oral rinse is gargled and spat out, and covers a wider area of the throat and mouth. Your pharmacist can help you choose between them.

Yes. Because Difflam relieves pain and inflammation rather than killing bacteria, it can help soothe both viral and bacterial sore throats. Most sore throats are viral and clear on their own, and Difflam can make you more comfortable while you recover. Antibiotics are only needed for certain bacterial infections such as strep throat.

Yes. Difflam throat spray is a pharmacy (P) medicine, so it is supplied under the supervision of a pharmacist rather than sold freely. Through Access Doctor you complete a short, free consultation, and if it is suitable our UK pharmacy supplies it and delivers it discreetly to your door.

Do not use Difflam if you are allergic to benzydamine or any of the other ingredients. Check with a pharmacist first if you are sensitive to aspirin or other anti-inflammatory painkillers, or if you have asthma, as sprays can occasionally trigger wheezing. It should only be used in children under 6 on the advice of a healthcare professional. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, let the pharmacist or prescriber know so they can confirm it is appropriate for you.