The Story
What Are Strepsils Extra Blackcurrant Lozenges?
A sore throat can stop you in your tracks — whether it's the scratchy start of a cold or a full-blown painful swallow that makes even a cup of tea feel like hard work. Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine designed to tackle that discomfort with a triple-action formula: two antibacterial agents and a local anaesthetic working together. Each pack contains 24 lozenges, making it a practical option to keep at home or in your bag during the colder months. You can browse the full range of cold and flu remedies at Cured Pharmacy if you need additional support alongside your throat treatment.
Sore throats are one of the most common reasons people visit a pharmacist in the UK. Most cases are caused by viral infections, though bacterial infections can also be responsible. These lozenges are formulated to address both the infection and the pain — a combination that sets them apart from simpler throat sweets.
How Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges Work?
The "triple action" in the name refers to three distinct mechanisms working simultaneously in your mouth and throat:
- Amylmetacresol 0.6 mg — an antiseptic agent that disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria, helping to reduce bacterial load in the throat.
- 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 1.2 mg — a second antibacterial compound that works alongside amylmetacresol to broaden the antimicrobial effect.
- Lidocaine hydrochloride 10 mg — a well-established local anaesthetic that temporarily numbs the throat lining, providing fast relief from the pain and discomfort of swallowing.
As the lozenge dissolves slowly in your mouth, these active ingredients are released directly onto the affected tissue. The anaesthetic effect from lidocaine typically begins within a few minutes of the lozenge dissolving. It's worth noting that these lozenges treat symptoms — they don't cure the underlying infection, particularly if it's viral in origin.
Who Should Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing a sore throat with significant pain. They're particularly useful when a standard throat lozenge isn't providing enough relief. That said, they're not appropriate for everyone.
- Adults aged 18 and over with a painful sore throat
- Teenagers aged 12–17 (under adult supervision)
- People who want both antibacterial and pain-relieving action in one lozenge
- Those who prefer a blackcurrant flavour over menthol or honey-lemon alternatives
They are not suitable for children under 12, and you should speak to a pharmacist or GP before using them if you have a known allergy to any of the active ingredients, or if you have conditions affecting your mouth or throat that require medical diagnosis.
How Do Strepsils Extra Lozenges Compare to Standard Strepsils?
| Feature | Strepsils Extra Triple Action | Standard Strepsils |
|---|---|---|
| Antibacterial agents | Yes (2 agents) | Yes (2 agents) |
| Local anaesthetic | Yes — Lidocaine 10 mg | No |
| Suitable age | 12 years and over | 6 years and over (some variants) |
| Pain relief speed | Faster (anaesthetic action) | Slower (antibacterial only) |
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
Store your Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use them after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're stocking up on medicines for winter, it's also worth checking your ear, nose and throat medicine cabinet to make sure everything is in date and ready to use.
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.
Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant – 24 Lozenges specifications
| Treatment category | Sore throat / Oral antiseptic with anaesthetic |
| Mechanism of action | Dual antibacterial action plus local anaesthetic (lidocaine) |
| Effective for | Sore throat pain and bacterial throat infections |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 12 years and over |
| Active ingredients | Amylmetacresol 0.6 mg, 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 1.2 mg, Lidocaine hydrochloride 10 mg |
| Pack size | 24 lozenges |
| UK classification | General Sale List (GSL) |
| Drug class | Antiseptic / Local anaesthetic combination |
| Preparation | Lozenge |
| Route of administration | Oral (buccal dissolution) |
Specifications of Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant – 24 Lozenges
What Is Strepsils Extra Triple Action and What Is It Used For?
Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the symptoms of sore throats in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each lozenge contains two antibacterial agents — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol — alongside lidocaine hydrochloride, a local anaesthetic. Together, they help reduce bacterial activity in the throat while numbing the area to ease pain and discomfort when swallowing. They are not a treatment for viral infections, which are the most common cause of sore throats according to the NHS.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
Before using these lozenges, check the following contraindications and warnings carefully:
- Do not use if you are under 12 years of age
- Do not use if you are allergic to amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol, lidocaine, or any other ingredient in the lozenge
- Do not use for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice
- Speak to your GP or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before use
- Seek medical advice if your sore throat is severe, prolonged, or accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing
- Use with caution if you have impaired liver function, as lidocaine is metabolised hepatically
Known drug interactions to be aware of:
- No clinically significant interactions are expected at the doses used in these lozenges
- If you are taking any prescribed medicines, particularly antiarrhythmics, speak to your pharmacist before use as a precaution with lidocaine-containing products
How Should You Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges?
Using these lozenges correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. Follow these steps:
- Take one lozenge from the pack.
- Place it in your mouth.
- Allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew or swallow it whole.
- Let the lozenge work across the throat and mouth as it dissolves.
- Wait at least 2–3 hours before taking another lozenge if symptoms persist.
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sore throat pain relief | Adults (18+) | 1 lozenge | Every 2–3 hours; max 8 in 24 hours |
| Sore throat pain relief | Children 12–17 years | 1 lozenge | Every 2–3 hours; max 8 in 24 hours |
| Not applicable | Under 12 years | Not suitable | Do not use |
If your symptoms have not improved after 3 days of use, stop taking the lozenges and consult your GP or pharmacist. You might also find it helpful to explore pain relief options if your throat discomfort is part of a wider cold or flu illness.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
Like all medicines, Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The lidocaine component is the most likely source of any local reactions.
Common side effects:
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat
- Mild taste changes during or after the lozenge dissolves
Less common side effects:
- Mouth irritation or soreness
- Nausea if the lozenge is swallowed rather than dissolved
- Hypersensitivity reactions including skin rash, itching, or swelling — stop use immediately and seek medical advice if these occur
If you experience any serious reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek emergency medical attention immediately. This could indicate a rare but serious allergic reaction.
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
- Store below 25°C in a dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
- Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused lozenges to your pharmacist for safe disposal
If you're managing multiple symptoms this winter, it's worth knowing that Cured Pharmacy also stocks a wide range of vitamins and supplements that may help support your immune system during the colder months.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tonsillitis/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lidocaine-for-mouth-and-throat/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/strep-a/
- https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1018/smpc
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges online in the UK?
You can buy Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant 24 Lozenges directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £4.49, with fast UK delivery to your door. They are a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, so no prescription is needed. They are also available from most high street pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.
How do Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges work in the body?
As the lozenge dissolves in your mouth, it releases two antibacterial agents — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol — which act directly on bacteria in the throat. At the same time, lidocaine hydrochloride numbs the throat lining to reduce pain when swallowing. The combined effect means you get both infection control and fast symptomatic relief from a single lozenge.
How do I use Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges step by step?
Place one lozenge in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew it or swallow it whole, as this reduces its effectiveness. You can use one lozenge every 2–3 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 8 lozenges in any 24-hour period. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days, stop use and speak to your pharmacist or GP.
What is the maximum number of Strepsils Extra lozenges I can take per day?
The maximum dose is 8 lozenges in any 24-hour period for adults and children aged 12 and over. Exceeding this dose increases the risk of side effects from the lidocaine component. Always follow the dosage instructions on the pack and do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice.
Are Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges safe for children?
Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges are not suitable for children under 12 years of age due to the lidocaine content. Children aged 12 to 17 may use them under adult supervision, following the same dosage as adults. For younger children with sore throats, speak to a pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives — you can also browse our cold and flu range for suitable options.
Can I use Strepsils Extra lozenges during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Strepsils Extra lozenges. The lidocaine content means professional guidance is particularly important, even though the systemic absorption from a lozenge is very low. Your healthcare provider can advise on the safest option for your individual circumstances.
What are the side effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
The most common side effect is temporary numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat, which is caused by the lidocaine and is entirely expected. Less commonly, some people experience mild mouth irritation or nausea if the lozenge is accidentally swallowed. Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash or swelling can occur — if this happens, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.
How do Strepsils Extra lozenges compare to standard Strepsils?
Standard Strepsils contain only the two antibacterial agents and are suitable from age 6 in some formulations, whereas Strepsils Extra adds lidocaine hydrochloride for direct anaesthetic pain relief. This makes Strepsils Extra more appropriate when your sore throat is particularly painful rather than just mildly irritated. If you're unsure which is right for you, a pharmacist can help you choose.
How long can I use Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges for?
You should not use Strepsils Extra lozenges for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. Most sore throats caused by viral infections resolve within 7–10 days according to the NHS, but if your symptoms are not improving after 3 days of lozenge use, it's important to see a GP. Prolonged or worsening symptoms may indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotic treatment.
What happens if I accidentally swallow a Strepsils Extra lozenge whole?
Swallowing a lozenge whole rather than letting it dissolve means you won't get the intended local effect in your throat, and the active ingredients will be absorbed differently. It is unlikely to cause serious harm in a single instance, but you should not make a habit of it. If you accidentally swallow several lozenges or feel unwell after doing so, contact NHS 111 or your pharmacist for advice.
Can Strepsils Extra lozenges interact with other medicines?
At the doses used in these lozenges, clinically significant drug interactions are not expected. However, if you are taking antiarrhythmic medicines or other drugs that affect heart rhythm, speak to your pharmacist before use as a precaution with lidocaine-containing products. Always mention all medicines you are taking — including herbal remedies — when asking for pharmacy advice.
Who is eligible to use Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have a sore throat with significant pain. They are not suitable for children under 12, people with known allergies to any of the active ingredients, or those who have been advised by a doctor to avoid local anaesthetics. If you have liver problems or are taking other medicines, check with your pharmacist first.
What are the alternatives to Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges?
Alternatives include standard Strepsils (without anaesthetic), Difflam lozenges (benzydamine, an anti-inflammatory), or simple glycerol-based throat lozenges for milder symptoms. For pain relief alongside a throat lozenge, you might also consider paracetamol or ibuprofen — explore our pain relief collection for options. Your pharmacist can help you decide which approach suits your symptoms best.
What is the best time to use Strepsils Extra lozenges?
You can use Strepsils Extra lozenges at any time of day when your sore throat symptoms are troublesome, spacing doses at least 2–3 hours apart. Many people find them particularly helpful before meals, as the anaesthetic effect can make swallowing food more comfortable. Avoid eating or drinking immediately after the lozenge has dissolved to allow the active ingredients to remain in contact with the throat tissue for as long as possible.
What are the latest findings on lidocaine throat lozenges for sore throat relief?
Lidocaine has a well-established history as a local anaesthetic and its use in throat lozenges is supported by decades of clinical use. Current NHS guidance confirms that most sore throats are self-limiting and that symptomatic relief with OTC products like anaesthetic lozenges is appropriate for the majority of cases. There is no new evidence to suggest that short-term use of lidocaine-containing lozenges at recommended doses poses any significant safety concern for healthy adults and adolescents.
Description
What Are Strepsils Extra Blackcurrant Lozenges?
A sore throat can stop you in your tracks — whether it's the scratchy start of a cold or a full-blown painful swallow that makes even a cup of tea feel like hard work. Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine designed to tackle that discomfort with a triple-action formula: two antibacterial agents and a local anaesthetic working together. Each pack contains 24 lozenges, making it a practical option to keep at home or in your bag during the colder months. You can browse the full range of cold and flu remedies at Cured Pharmacy if you need additional support alongside your throat treatment.
Sore throats are one of the most common reasons people visit a pharmacist in the UK. Most cases are caused by viral infections, though bacterial infections can also be responsible. These lozenges are formulated to address both the infection and the pain — a combination that sets them apart from simpler throat sweets.
How Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges Work?
The "triple action" in the name refers to three distinct mechanisms working simultaneously in your mouth and throat:
- Amylmetacresol 0.6 mg — an antiseptic agent that disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria, helping to reduce bacterial load in the throat.
- 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 1.2 mg — a second antibacterial compound that works alongside amylmetacresol to broaden the antimicrobial effect.
- Lidocaine hydrochloride 10 mg — a well-established local anaesthetic that temporarily numbs the throat lining, providing fast relief from the pain and discomfort of swallowing.
As the lozenge dissolves slowly in your mouth, these active ingredients are released directly onto the affected tissue. The anaesthetic effect from lidocaine typically begins within a few minutes of the lozenge dissolving. It's worth noting that these lozenges treat symptoms — they don't cure the underlying infection, particularly if it's viral in origin.
Who Should Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing a sore throat with significant pain. They're particularly useful when a standard throat lozenge isn't providing enough relief. That said, they're not appropriate for everyone.
- Adults aged 18 and over with a painful sore throat
- Teenagers aged 12–17 (under adult supervision)
- People who want both antibacterial and pain-relieving action in one lozenge
- Those who prefer a blackcurrant flavour over menthol or honey-lemon alternatives
They are not suitable for children under 12, and you should speak to a pharmacist or GP before using them if you have a known allergy to any of the active ingredients, or if you have conditions affecting your mouth or throat that require medical diagnosis.
How Do Strepsils Extra Lozenges Compare to Standard Strepsils?
| Feature | Strepsils Extra Triple Action | Standard Strepsils |
|---|---|---|
| Antibacterial agents | Yes (2 agents) | Yes (2 agents) |
| Local anaesthetic | Yes — Lidocaine 10 mg | No |
| Suitable age | 12 years and over | 6 years and over (some variants) |
| Pain relief speed | Faster (anaesthetic action) | Slower (antibacterial only) |
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
Store your Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use them after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're stocking up on medicines for winter, it's also worth checking your ear, nose and throat medicine cabinet to make sure everything is in date and ready to use.
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.
Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant – 24 Lozenges specifications
| Treatment category | Sore throat / Oral antiseptic with anaesthetic |
| Mechanism of action | Dual antibacterial action plus local anaesthetic (lidocaine) |
| Effective for | Sore throat pain and bacterial throat infections |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 12 years and over |
| Active ingredients | Amylmetacresol 0.6 mg, 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 1.2 mg, Lidocaine hydrochloride 10 mg |
| Pack size | 24 lozenges |
| UK classification | General Sale List (GSL) |
| Drug class | Antiseptic / Local anaesthetic combination |
| Preparation | Lozenge |
| Route of administration | Oral (buccal dissolution) |
Specifications of Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant – 24 Lozenges
What Is Strepsils Extra Triple Action and What Is It Used For?
Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the symptoms of sore throats in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each lozenge contains two antibacterial agents — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol — alongside lidocaine hydrochloride, a local anaesthetic. Together, they help reduce bacterial activity in the throat while numbing the area to ease pain and discomfort when swallowing. They are not a treatment for viral infections, which are the most common cause of sore throats according to the NHS.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
Before using these lozenges, check the following contraindications and warnings carefully:
- Do not use if you are under 12 years of age
- Do not use if you are allergic to amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol, lidocaine, or any other ingredient in the lozenge
- Do not use for more than 3 days without seeking medical advice
- Speak to your GP or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before use
- Seek medical advice if your sore throat is severe, prolonged, or accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing
- Use with caution if you have impaired liver function, as lidocaine is metabolised hepatically
Known drug interactions to be aware of:
- No clinically significant interactions are expected at the doses used in these lozenges
- If you are taking any prescribed medicines, particularly antiarrhythmics, speak to your pharmacist before use as a precaution with lidocaine-containing products
How Should You Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges?
Using these lozenges correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. Follow these steps:
- Take one lozenge from the pack.
- Place it in your mouth.
- Allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew or swallow it whole.
- Let the lozenge work across the throat and mouth as it dissolves.
- Wait at least 2–3 hours before taking another lozenge if symptoms persist.
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sore throat pain relief | Adults (18+) | 1 lozenge | Every 2–3 hours; max 8 in 24 hours |
| Sore throat pain relief | Children 12–17 years | 1 lozenge | Every 2–3 hours; max 8 in 24 hours |
| Not applicable | Under 12 years | Not suitable | Do not use |
If your symptoms have not improved after 3 days of use, stop taking the lozenges and consult your GP or pharmacist. You might also find it helpful to explore pain relief options if your throat discomfort is part of a wider cold or flu illness.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
Like all medicines, Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The lidocaine component is the most likely source of any local reactions.
Common side effects:
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat
- Mild taste changes during or after the lozenge dissolves
Less common side effects:
- Mouth irritation or soreness
- Nausea if the lozenge is swallowed rather than dissolved
- Hypersensitivity reactions including skin rash, itching, or swelling — stop use immediately and seek medical advice if these occur
If you experience any serious reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek emergency medical attention immediately. This could indicate a rare but serious allergic reaction.
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Lozenges?
- Store below 25°C in a dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
- Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused lozenges to your pharmacist for safe disposal
If you're managing multiple symptoms this winter, it's worth knowing that Cured Pharmacy also stocks a wide range of vitamins and supplements that may help support your immune system during the colder months.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tonsillitis/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lidocaine-for-mouth-and-throat/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/strep-a/
- https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1018/smpc
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges online in the UK?
You can buy Strepsils Extra Triple Action Blackcurrant 24 Lozenges directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £4.49, with fast UK delivery to your door. They are a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, so no prescription is needed. They are also available from most high street pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.
How do Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges work in the body?
As the lozenge dissolves in your mouth, it releases two antibacterial agents — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol — which act directly on bacteria in the throat. At the same time, lidocaine hydrochloride numbs the throat lining to reduce pain when swallowing. The combined effect means you get both infection control and fast symptomatic relief from a single lozenge.
How do I use Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges step by step?
Place one lozenge in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew it or swallow it whole, as this reduces its effectiveness. You can use one lozenge every 2–3 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 8 lozenges in any 24-hour period. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days, stop use and speak to your pharmacist or GP.
What is the maximum number of Strepsils Extra lozenges I can take per day?
The maximum dose is 8 lozenges in any 24-hour period for adults and children aged 12 and over. Exceeding this dose increases the risk of side effects from the lidocaine component. Always follow the dosage instructions on the pack and do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice.
Are Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges safe for children?
Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges are not suitable for children under 12 years of age due to the lidocaine content. Children aged 12 to 17 may use them under adult supervision, following the same dosage as adults. For younger children with sore throats, speak to a pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives — you can also browse our cold and flu range for suitable options.
Can I use Strepsils Extra lozenges during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Strepsils Extra lozenges. The lidocaine content means professional guidance is particularly important, even though the systemic absorption from a lozenge is very low. Your healthcare provider can advise on the safest option for your individual circumstances.
What are the side effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
The most common side effect is temporary numbness or tingling in the mouth and throat, which is caused by the lidocaine and is entirely expected. Less commonly, some people experience mild mouth irritation or nausea if the lozenge is accidentally swallowed. Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash or swelling can occur — if this happens, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.
How do Strepsils Extra lozenges compare to standard Strepsils?
Standard Strepsils contain only the two antibacterial agents and are suitable from age 6 in some formulations, whereas Strepsils Extra adds lidocaine hydrochloride for direct anaesthetic pain relief. This makes Strepsils Extra more appropriate when your sore throat is particularly painful rather than just mildly irritated. If you're unsure which is right for you, a pharmacist can help you choose.
How long can I use Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges for?
You should not use Strepsils Extra lozenges for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. Most sore throats caused by viral infections resolve within 7–10 days according to the NHS, but if your symptoms are not improving after 3 days of lozenge use, it's important to see a GP. Prolonged or worsening symptoms may indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotic treatment.
What happens if I accidentally swallow a Strepsils Extra lozenge whole?
Swallowing a lozenge whole rather than letting it dissolve means you won't get the intended local effect in your throat, and the active ingredients will be absorbed differently. It is unlikely to cause serious harm in a single instance, but you should not make a habit of it. If you accidentally swallow several lozenges or feel unwell after doing so, contact NHS 111 or your pharmacist for advice.
Can Strepsils Extra lozenges interact with other medicines?
At the doses used in these lozenges, clinically significant drug interactions are not expected. However, if you are taking antiarrhythmic medicines or other drugs that affect heart rhythm, speak to your pharmacist before use as a precaution with lidocaine-containing products. Always mention all medicines you are taking — including herbal remedies — when asking for pharmacy advice.
Who is eligible to use Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have a sore throat with significant pain. They are not suitable for children under 12, people with known allergies to any of the active ingredients, or those who have been advised by a doctor to avoid local anaesthetics. If you have liver problems or are taking other medicines, check with your pharmacist first.
What are the alternatives to Strepsils Extra blackcurrant lozenges?
Alternatives include standard Strepsils (without anaesthetic), Difflam lozenges (benzydamine, an anti-inflammatory), or simple glycerol-based throat lozenges for milder symptoms. For pain relief alongside a throat lozenge, you might also consider paracetamol or ibuprofen — explore our pain relief collection for options. Your pharmacist can help you decide which approach suits your symptoms best.
What is the best time to use Strepsils Extra lozenges?
You can use Strepsils Extra lozenges at any time of day when your sore throat symptoms are troublesome, spacing doses at least 2–3 hours apart. Many people find them particularly helpful before meals, as the anaesthetic effect can make swallowing food more comfortable. Avoid eating or drinking immediately after the lozenge has dissolved to allow the active ingredients to remain in contact with the throat tissue for as long as possible.
What are the latest findings on lidocaine throat lozenges for sore throat relief?
Lidocaine has a well-established history as a local anaesthetic and its use in throat lozenges is supported by decades of clinical use. Current NHS guidance confirms that most sore throats are self-limiting and that symptomatic relief with OTC products like anaesthetic lozenges is appropriate for the majority of cases. There is no new evidence to suggest that short-term use of lidocaine-containing lozenges at recommended doses poses any significant safety concern for healthy adults and adolescents.
