Benzydamine

1. Introduction

Benzydamine, commonly marketed under brand names such as Difflam and Tantum Verde, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with local analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is commonly used as a mouthwash, oral spray, or topical gel for managing pain and inflammation in the mouth, throat, and other areas.

2. Indications

  • Approved Indications:
    • Relief of pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat (e.g., sore throat, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, oral mucositis).
    • Treatment of post-surgical inflammation (e.g., after tonsillectomy or dental procedures).
    • Pain relief for oral ulcers.
  • Off-Label Uses:
    • Symptomatic relief of vaginal inflammation and pain (in topical form).

3. Dosage

  • Oral Spray:
    • 4–8 sprays every 1.5–3 hours.
  • Mouthwash:
    • 15 mL diluted with equal parts water, rinse for 30 seconds every 1.5–3 hours.
  • Topical Gel:
    • Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2–3 times daily.

Dosage may vary based on the condition being treated and the formulation used.

4. Administration

  • For the oral spray and mouthwash, do not swallow; rinse or spray directly onto the affected area.
  • For topical gel, apply externally to the affected skin or mucous membranes. Avoid application to large areas.

5. Forms Available

  • Oral spray: 0.15% w/v.
  • Mouthwash: 0.15% w/v solution (150 mg/100 mL).
  • Topical gel: 3% w/w.

6. Side Effects

6.1. Common Side Effects

  • Oral numbness or tingling.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Altered taste sensation.

6.2. Less Common Side Effects

  • Burning sensation at the site of application.
  • Nausea.

6.3. Rare but Serious Side Effects

  • Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling).
  • Bronchospasm (in patients with asthma or hypersensitivity).

7. Warnings

  • Avoid use in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to benzydamine or other NSAIDs.
  • Caution in patients with asthma due to the risk of bronchospasm.

8. Precautions

  • Prolonged use (beyond 7 days) is not recommended without medical supervision.
  • Avoid contact with eyes; rinse thoroughly with water if accidental contact occurs.
  • Do not apply to deep wounds or severely inflamed skin.

9. Interactions

  • No significant drug-drug or drug-food interactions reported.

10. Monitoring Parameters

  • Symptom relief within a few days of use.
  • Watch for signs of hypersensitivity or adverse effects.

11. Use in Children

  • Approved for use in children aged 6 years and above (mouthwash and spray).
  • Use with caution and under supervision to avoid swallowing the product.

12. Use in Pregnancy

  • Limited data on safety in pregnancy.
  • Use only if the potential benefit outweighs the risk, particularly in the first trimester.

13. Use in Elderly

  • Generally safe, with no specific dosage adjustments required.

14. Use in Kidney Disease

  • No specific dosage adjustments required; systemic absorption is minimal.

15. Use in Liver Disease

  • No specific dosage adjustments required; systemic absorption is minimal.

16. Patient Counselling Points

  • Explain proper use of the formulation (spray, mouthwash, or gel).
  • Advise against swallowing the spray or mouthwash.
  • Highlight that prolonged use without medical advice is not recommended.
  • Inform patients about potential tingling or burning sensations, which are typically mild and temporary.
  • Store at room temperature and out of reach of children.

17. Table of Brand Names, Manufacturers, and Prices

Brand NameManufacturerPrice (USD)
Difflam SprayMylan$10–15 (30 mL)
Tantum VerdeAngelini Pharma$10–12 (30 mL)
Generic OptionsVarious$5–10 (30 mL)

18. FAQs (15 Questions)

  1. What is benzydamine used for?
    It is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth, throat, and other areas.
  2. How does benzydamine work?
    It reduces inflammation and provides local analgesic effects.
  3. Can benzydamine be swallowed?
    No, it should not be swallowed when used as a mouthwash or spray.
  4. What are the common side effects of benzydamine?
    Oral numbness, tingling, and altered taste sensation.
  5. Is benzydamine safe for children?
    Yes, for children aged 6 years and above with proper supervision.
  6. Can pregnant women use benzydamine?
    Use with caution; consult a doctor before use during pregnancy.
  7. How often can I use benzydamine spray?
    It can be used every 1.5–3 hours, up to a maximum of 8 sprays at a time.
  8. Can benzydamine treat oral ulcers?
    Yes, it is effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with oral ulcers.
  9. How should benzydamine mouthwash be used?
    Dilute as directed, rinse for 30 seconds, and spit out without swallowing.
  10. Can I use benzydamine for a sore throat?
    Yes, it is commonly used to relieve sore throat symptoms.
  11. Does benzydamine interact with other medications?
    No significant interactions are reported.
  12. Can benzydamine cause allergies?
    Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions may occur.
  13. Is benzydamine effective for post-surgical pain?
    Yes, it is often prescribed for pain relief after dental or throat surgeries.
  14. How long does it take for benzydamine to work?
    Symptom relief typically occurs within minutes to hours after use.
  15. Do I need a prescription for benzydamine?
    In most regions, it is available over-the-counter for short-term use.