Difflam Throat Numbing Spray - 30ml

What Is Difflam Throat Spray and How Does It Help?

Difflam throat spray is a trusted, clinically established over-the-counter treatment for sore throat pain and inflammation. Each 30ml bottle contains benzydamine hydrochloride 0.15% w/v, a locally acting non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that targets discomfort right where you feel it — at the back of the throat. Whether your sore throat has come on after a cold, following dental work, or as a result of a minor mouth infection, this spray offers targeted, fast-acting relief without the need for a prescription. If you're also dealing with other cold and flu symptoms alongside your sore throat, you might find our cold and flu range useful too.

Sore throats are one of the most common reasons people visit a pharmacist in the UK. The NHS notes that most sore throats clear up on their own within a week, but in the meantime, the pain can make eating, drinking, and even talking feel like a real effort. That's where a targeted throat spray can make a genuine difference to your day-to-day comfort.

How Does Difflam Throat Numbing Spray Work?

Benzydamine hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Difflam, works locally in the oropharyngeal area — that's the back of your mouth and upper throat. It doesn't need to be swallowed or absorbed into the bloodstream to do its job. Here's how it works:

• It inhibits the production of prostaglandins, the chemicals responsible for triggering inflammation and pain in irritated tissue.
• It has a mild local anaesthetic effect, which is why you may notice a temporary numbing sensation after spraying.
• It acts directly on the inflamed mucous membranes lining the throat, reducing swelling and discomfort at the source.
• Because it works topically, systemic side effects are minimal when used as directed.

This dual anti-inflammatory and analgesic action makes it particularly useful for conditions where the throat lining itself is irritated or swollen.

Who Should Use Difflam Throat Numbing Spray?

This spray is suitable for a wide range of people dealing with throat and mouth discomfort. It's particularly helpful if you need relief that works locally without taking oral painkillers. That said, it's not right for everyone — see below.

• Adults and teenagers aged 12 and over experiencing sore throat pain.
• Children aged 6 to 11 years, under appropriate dosing guidance from a pharmacist.
• People recovering from dental procedures or minor oral surgery who have throat or mouth soreness.
• Those who prefer a topical treatment rather than systemic oral analgesics such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.

It is not suitable for children under 6 years of age. People with known hypersensitivity to benzydamine or other NSAIDs should also avoid this product.

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. You should not use it for more than 7 days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. If your sore throat persists beyond a week, worsens significantly, or is accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or a rash, you should seek medical advice promptly — these could be signs of a more serious condition requiring treatment. For broader pain management needs, our pain relief collection includes a range of options your pharmacist can help you choose from.

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

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% w/v. It is used to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with sore throats, including those caused by pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and minor mouth infections. It is also used to ease discomfort following dental procedures or oral surgery. The spray works locally in the throat and mouth, meaning it does not need to be absorbed into the bloodstream to provide relief. You can also explore our ear, nose and throat range for related products that may complement your treatment.

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

Before using this spray, read the following carefully. Do not use Difflam throat spray if any of the following apply to you:

• You are allergic to benzydamine hydrochloride or any other ingredient in the product.
• You have a known hypersensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen).
• You are under 6 years of age.
• You have been told by a doctor to avoid NSAIDs.

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using this spray if:

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding — NSAIDs are generally not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy.
• You have asthma, as some people with asthma may be sensitive to NSAIDs.
• Your sore throat is severe, lasts longer than 7 days, or is accompanied by a high fever, headache, nausea, or rash.

Drug interactions: No clinically significant interactions have been identified at OTC doses when used topically. However, always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking.

• No significant interactions with common OTC medicines are currently documented for topical benzydamine at standard doses.

How Should You Use Difflam Throat Numbing Spray?

Always use this spray exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended number of doses in any 24-hour period.

1. Remove the cap from the spray nozzle.
2. Hold the bottle upright and point the nozzle towards the back of your throat.
3. Press the pump firmly to release the spray — each press delivers one metered dose.
4. Apply the number of sprays appropriate for your age group (see table below).
5. Do not inhale the spray. Avoid contact with the eyes.
6. Replace the cap after use.
7. Repeat every 1.5 to 3 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 8 times per day.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Difflam Throat Numbing Spray?

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

Common side effects:

• Temporary numbness or tingling in the mouth or throat.
• Mild stinging or burning sensation immediately after spraying.

Less common side effects:

• Hypersensitivity reactions such as skin rash or itching.
• Bronchospasm (narrowing of the airways) — particularly in people with asthma or NSAID sensitivity.
• Photosensitisation (increased sensitivity to sunlight) — rare with topical use.

Stop using the spray and seek medical attention immediately if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. These may be signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which requires urgent treatment. If you are managing other health concerns alongside a sore throat, our oral health collection has additional products that may support your recovery.

How Should You Store Difflam Throat Numbing Spray?

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Do not freeze the product.
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label or carton.
• Do not store near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
• Do not transfer the contents to another container.