Difflam Sore Throat Rinse - 200ml

Product Summary

Difflam Sore Throat Rinse contains the active substance benzydamine hydrochloride and belongs to the group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Difflam Sore Throat Rinse works by stopping pain and swelling (inflammation).

It is used to treat many painful conditions of the mouth and throat, including sore throats.

Directions

How much Difflam Sore Throat Rinse to use:

• Adults, adolescents and elderly: The usual dose is 15 ml every 1½ to 3 hours. Use the measuring cup provided to measure the dose.
• Children: This medicine is not suitable for children aged 12 years or under

Ingredients

• The active substance is benzydamine hydrochloride. Each 15 ml contains 22.5 mg of Benzydamine hydrochloride.
• The other ingredients are ethanol, glycerol, saccharin, sodium hydrogen carbonate, mouthwash flavour 52 503/T, polysorbate 20, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, quinoline yellow (E104) and patent blue V (E131), purified water

Warnings and Restrictions

• This medicine contains glycerol, which may cause headache, upset stomach and diarrhoea.
• If you take too much Difflam Sore Throat Rinse or you accidentally swallow large quantities of this product, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use Difflam Sore Throat Rinse after the expiry date on the bottle.
• The expiry date refers to the last day of the printed month.
• If you store the product without the original carton, make sure it is kept out of the direct sunlight.
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste.
• Return any medicine you no longer need to your pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, Difflam Sore Throat Rinse can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Some side effects could be serious.

If you have any of the side effects listed below, seek immediate medical help:

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock), signs of which include difficulty breathing, chest pain or chest tightness, feeling dizzy/faint, severe itching of the skin or raised lumps on the skin, swelling of the face, lips, tongue and/or throat.
• Some of these symptoms may potentially be life-threatening.

Pharmacist FAQs Answered

How does Difflam Sore Throat Rinse work?

Difflam contains benzydamine hydrochloride, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It reduces inflammation and numbs the pain in the mouth or throat. Unlike general painkillers you swallow, Difflam targets the area directly by rinsing and coating the sore tissues. This can bring fast, local relief for sore throats, mouth ulcers, or following dental procedures.

When should I use Difflam Rinse, and how often should I use it?

Difflam Rinse is usually used every 1½ to 3 hours, depending on your severe symptoms. Use 15 ml each time, measured using the provided cup. Gargle or rinse the liquid around your mouth or throat for about 30 seconds, then spit it out — don’t swallow it. It’s best used after meals and before bedtime to keep symptoms under control throughout the day and night.

Who should not use Difflam Rinse?

Difflam is not suitable for children aged 12 or under. It should also be avoided if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to benzydamine or similar medicines in the past. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of asthma or allergies, speak to your pharmacist or doctor before use. Always check the whole ingredients if you have any known sensitivities.

Can I use Difflam Rinse with other sore throat treatments?

Yes, in many cases you can. Difflam can be used alongside lozenges, sprays or oral painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, as long as you don’t exceed recommended doses. However, avoid using multiple NSAIDs at the same time (like ibuprofen and Difflam together) unless advised by your doctor or pharmacist. Always leave a little time between products to avoid irritation.

What should I do if I accidentally swallow Difflam?

Swallowing a small amount of Difflam during rinsing is unlikely to cause harm. But if a large quantity is swallowed by accident — especially by a child — it may cause side effects like nausea, dizziness or drowsiness. Contact a doctor, pharmacist, or NHS 111 immediately if this happens. Always supervise children and store medicines out of their reach.

What are the possible side effects of Difflam?

Most people use Difflam without any problems, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects. These may include a dry mouth, tingling or numbness, or mild irritation in the mouth or throat. Rarely, severe allergic reactions can occur, including swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or rash. Stop using the product and seek medical help straight away if this happens.