Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges

Generic Name: Benzydamine, Dichlorobenzyl alcohol, Lignocaine
Product Name: Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges

Indication

Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges can be used for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with pharyngitis, minor mouth infections, dental procedures and oral surgery.

Action

Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges contain the active ingredients benzydamine, dichlorobenzyl alcohol and lignocaine.

Benzydamine belongs to a family of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They work to reduce pain and inflammation in the body by reducing the production of hormone-like substances that promote the inflammatory response. Benzydamine does not treat the underlying cause of the inflammation, however, and should not be used for extended periods of time without medical advice. Benzydamine also possesses local anaesthetic activity to further enhance pain relief.

Dichlorobenzyl alcohol is an antibacterial agent designed to prevent the growth of bacteria in the throat and mouth. It may help to reduce the severity and duration of a sore throat.

Lignocaine is a local anaesthetic agent that works by blocking pain signals to and from the nervous system. Lignocaine helps to temporarily relieve pain in conditions of the mouth and throat such as sore throat.

Dose advice

• Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges should not be chewed, but dissolved slowly in the mouth for optimal effect (see packaging for dose instructions)
• Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice
• If symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment, consult your doctor as the condition may require treatment with antibiotics
• Seek medical advice before using if you are taking regular medication for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.
• Seek medical advice before using if you have had a previous allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
  • Asthma, wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the face, lips or tongue, causing difficulty swallowing and breathing
  • Hives, itching or skin rash
  • Fainting
• Used only under medical advice in patients who are pregnant (ADEC Pregnancy Category B2) or  breast feeding.
• Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges contain the natural sugar substitute isomalt, which may have a laxative effect when consumed in excess.
• Care should be taken when consuming hot food or drink following use of Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges, as the local anaesthetic may dull the sensation of heat and pain. It is recommended to avoid hot food or drink for one to two hours following use.
• Not recommended in children under the age of six years except under medical advice.

Schedule

Schedule 2

Common side effects

Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges are generally well tolerated.

Possible side effects may include:

• Oral numbness
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Dry mouth or thirst
• Tingling sensation
• Warm sensation in mouth
• Taste disturbance
• Nausea and vomiting
• Laxative effect (this can be avoided by not exceeding the maximum daily dose)
• Dizziness
• Headaches and drowsiness
• Restlessness or excitement
• Allergic reactions (including skin rashes and increased sensitivity to sunlight)

Contact your doctor if you experience or are concerned about any of the above side effects.

Uncommon side effects

Very rarely, Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges may cause life threatening allergic reactions. If you have had any allergic reactions to medicines in the past, it is important to check with your doctor that Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges are suitable for you.

If you experience difficulty breathing or develop swelling of the face, lips or tongue following use of Difflam Anaesthetic, Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Lozenges, seek emergency medical attention.

References

1. MIMS Online. [Monograph online] MIMS Australia Pty Ltd 2003. [Cited January 14, 2008] http://www.mims.com.au
2. Electronic Australian Prescription Products Guide. Australian Pharmaceutical Publishing Company, 2007. [Cited January 14, 2008]
3. Lazo, J, Gilman A, Brunton L et al. Goodman & Gilman’s The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 11th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2006.

For further information talk to your doctor.