Difflam Throat Numbing Spray - 30ml

What Is Difflam Throat Spray and How Does It Help?

A sore throat can make even swallowing feel like a challenge. Whether it's come on after a cold, following dental work, or as part of a bout of tonsillitis, the discomfort can be genuinely draining. Difflam throat spray is a clinically established over-the-counter treatment that targets throat pain and inflammation directly at the source, offering localised relief without the need for a prescription. Each 30ml bottle contains benzydamine hydrochloride 0.15%, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works topically in the mouth and throat. You can browse our full range of ear, nose and throat products if you're looking for additional support alongside this spray.

Sore throats are one of the most common reasons people visit a pharmacist in the UK. Most cases are caused by viral infections and resolve on their own, but the pain in the meantime can be significant. Difflam throat spray is designed to ease that discomfort quickly, making it a practical option to keep in your medicine cabinet.

How Does Difflam Throat Numbing Spray Work?

Benzydamine hydrochloride, the active ingredient in this spray, works locally rather than systemically. That means it acts directly on the tissues of the throat and mouth rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream in meaningful amounts. Here's how it works:

• It inhibits the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for triggering inflammation and pain signals.
• It has a mild local anaesthetic effect, which is why you may notice a temporary numbing sensation after use.
• It also has some antimicrobial properties, which may help in cases where the throat irritation is associated with minor infections.
• Because it acts topically, it begins working relatively quickly after application to the affected area.

This combination of anti-inflammatory and numbing action makes it particularly useful for conditions where the throat lining is inflamed and painful.

Who Should Use Difflam Throat Numbing Spray?

This spray is suitable for a range of people dealing with throat and mouth discomfort. It's commonly used by adults and older children, and it's particularly helpful in situations where swallowing tablets or lozenges is difficult due to throat pain. It may be appropriate for you if you are experiencing:

• A sore throat caused by a viral upper respiratory tract infection
• Mouth ulcers or oral mucositis (including that caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy — under medical supervision)
• Post-operative throat pain following tonsillectomy or dental procedures
• Pharyngitis or tonsillitis (alongside appropriate medical treatment if bacterial)

It is suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over. Children under 6 should not use this product without specific medical advice.

How Does Difflam Throat Spray Compare to Other Sore Throat Treatments?

Is Difflam Throat Spray Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

Difflam throat spray is intended for short-term use only. If your symptoms persist beyond 7 days, you should stop using the spray and seek advice from your GP or pharmacist, as a persistent sore throat can occasionally indicate a more serious underlying condition. If you're also managing other symptoms like congestion, you might find our cold and flu range helpful alongside this product.

Store the spray below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Check the expiry date on the bottle before use and do not use the product after that date.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Difflam Throat Numbing Spray and What Is It Used For?

Difflam Throat Numbing Spray 30ml is an over-the-counter oropharyngeal spray containing benzydamine hydrochloride 0.15%. It is used to relieve pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat. Common uses include sore throats associated with colds and flu, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, and post-operative discomfort following dental or throat procedures. It may also be used under medical supervision for oral mucositis caused by radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The spray delivers the active ingredient directly to the affected area, providing targeted localised relief.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Difflam Throat Spray?

Before using this spray, read the following carefully. There are certain situations where this product may not be appropriate for you.

Do not use this spray if you:

• Are allergic to benzydamine hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the product
• Are allergic to aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Are under 6 years of age
• Have been told by a doctor to avoid NSAIDs

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:

• Are pregnant, especially in the third trimester, or breastfeeding
• Have asthma — some people with asthma are sensitive to NSAIDs
• Have kidney or liver problems
• Are taking other medicines, including prescribed treatments

Drug interactions:

• No clinically significant interactions are known at standard OTC doses when used topically as directed
• If you are taking systemic NSAIDs or anticoagulants, speak to your pharmacist before use

How Should You Use Difflam Throat Numbing Spray?

Using the spray correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Remove the cap from the spray nozzle.
2. Point the nozzle towards the back of your throat or the affected area in your mouth.
3. Press the pump firmly to release the spray — each press delivers one metered dose.
4. Do not inhale the spray into your lungs.
5. Do not swallow the spray — allow it to coat the affected area.
6. Replace the cap after use.
7. Wash your hands before and after use.

If you are looking for additional support for related symptoms, our pain relief range includes a variety of options that may complement your recovery.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Difflam Throat Spray?

Like all medicines, Difflam throat spray can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Common side effects:

• Temporary numbness or tingling in the mouth or throat
• Mild stinging or burning sensation on application
• Nausea (particularly if the spray is accidentally swallowed)

Less common side effects:

• Hypersensitivity reactions such as skin rash or itching
• Photosensitisation (increased sensitivity to sunlight) — rare
• Bronchospasm in people with aspirin-sensitive asthma — rare but serious

Stop using the spray immediately and seek medical attention if you develop swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which requires urgent treatment.

How Should You Store Difflam Throat Spray?

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the product. Follow these guidelines:

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Do not freeze the spray
• Keep the bottle tightly capped when not in use
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicines to your pharmacist

If you're managing a range of health concerns alongside a sore throat, our vitamins and supplements collection includes immune-support options that may be worth exploring during recovery.