The Story
What Are Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges?
A sore throat can stop you in your tracks — whether it's the scratchy discomfort of a cold or the sharper pain that makes swallowing feel like a chore. Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine designed to tackle that discomfort from three angles at once: killing bacteria, numbing pain, and soothing the throat. Each cherry-flavoured lozenge contains a local anaesthetic alongside two established antibacterial agents, making it one of the more targeted options available without a prescription. You can browse the full range of throat and respiratory products in our Ear, Nose & Throat collection if you're looking for additional support.
Sore throats are extremely common in the UK. The NHS notes that most are caused by viral infections and resolve on their own within a week, but bacterial involvement can prolong symptoms and increase discomfort. These lozenges are intended for adults and children aged 12 and over who need fast-acting, localised relief while the body fights off infection.
How Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges Work?
The "triple action" in the name refers to three distinct mechanisms working together in each lozenge:
- Antibacterial action: Amylmetacresol (0.6 mg) and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol (1.2 mg) are antiseptic agents that disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria present in the throat, reducing bacterial load at the site of infection.
- Local anaesthetic effect: Lidocaine hydrochloride (10 mg) temporarily blocks nerve signals in the throat lining, providing fast numbing relief from pain and the urge to swallow uncomfortably.
- Soothing delivery: The lozenge format encourages slow dissolution in the mouth, allowing the active ingredients to coat the throat gradually and maintain contact with affected tissue for longer than a spray or liquid might.
It's worth noting that while the antibacterial agents target bacteria, they won't treat a viral sore throat at its root cause — but they can help prevent secondary bacterial infection and ease symptoms in the meantime.
Who Should Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for most adults and teenagers who are experiencing a sore throat with pain. They're particularly useful when over-the-counter pain relief alone isn't cutting through the discomfort, or when you need something you can use discreetly during the day.
- Adults aged 18 and over with a sore throat caused by a cold, flu, or mild bacterial infection
- Teenagers aged 12–17 (under adult supervision where appropriate)
- People who prefer a localised treatment rather than systemic oral painkillers
- Those who want a cherry-flavoured option that's easy to take without water
They are not suitable for children under 12, people with a known allergy to lidocaine or other amide-type local anaesthetics, or anyone with a known hypersensitivity to any of the other ingredients. If you have a severe sore throat, difficulty breathing, or a high fever, you should seek medical advice rather than relying on lozenges alone.
How Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges Compare to Standard Strepsils?
| Feature | Strepsils Extra Triple Action | Standard Strepsils (Original) |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredients | Amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol, lidocaine HCl | Amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol |
| Pain-numbing effect | Yes — lidocaine provides local anaesthesia | No dedicated anaesthetic |
| Antibacterial action | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum age | 12 years | 6 years |
| Best suited for | Moderate to more painful sore throats | Mild sore throats and early symptoms |
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Store your Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're stocking up on medicines for winter, it's also worth checking our Cold and Flu collection for complementary products to keep at home.
Each pack contains 24 lozenges, giving you a useful supply for a typical short-term illness. The cherry flavour makes them more palatable than some medicated lozenges, which can be a real help when your throat is already sensitive.
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 Cherry Lozenges 24 Pack specifications
| Treatment category | Sore throat relief |
| Mechanism of action | Antibacterial (amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol) + local anaesthetic (lidocaine HCl) |
| Effective for | Sore throat pain and bacterial throat infections |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 12 and over |
| Active ingredients | Amylmetacresol 0.6 mg, 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 1.2 mg, Lidocaine hydrochloride 10 mg per lozenge |
| Pack size | 24 lozenges |
| UK classification | General Sale List (GSL) |
| Drug class | Antiseptic / Local anaesthetic combination |
| Preparation | Lozenge |
| Route of administration | Oromucosal (dissolved slowly in the mouth) |
Specifications of Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges 24 Pack
What Is Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry and What Is It Used For?
Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the pain and discomfort of sore throats in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each lozenge combines two antiseptic agents with a local anaesthetic to provide both antibacterial and pain-relieving effects directly at the site of infection. They are used for symptomatic relief of sore throats associated with colds, flu, and mild upper respiratory tract infections. They do not treat the underlying viral cause of a cold, but they can make symptoms significantly more manageable while your body recovers.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry?
Before using these lozenges, read the following carefully. Some people should not use this product or should seek advice first.
Do not use if you:
- Are under 12 years of age
- Are allergic to lidocaine, any other amide-type local anaesthetic, or any other ingredient in the lozenge
- Have a known hypersensitivity to amylmetacresol or 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol
Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have liver disease, as lidocaine is metabolised hepatically
- Have a severe or worsening sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or a high temperature above 38°C
- Have had a sore throat lasting more than 3 days without improvement
- Are taking any prescribed medicines, particularly antiarrhythmics or other medicines affecting heart rhythm
Drug interactions to be aware of:
- Lidocaine may interact with antiarrhythmic drugs such as amiodarone or mexiletine — seek pharmacist advice if you take these
- No clinically significant interactions are expected at the recommended OTC dose for most people
If you're managing other health conditions alongside a sore throat, our Pain Relief collection includes a range of systemic options that may complement localised throat treatment.
How Should You Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Using these lozenges correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. Follow these steps:
- Place one lozenge in your mouth.
- Allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew or swallow it whole.
- Let the lozenge coat the back of your throat as it dissolves.
- Wait at least 2–3 hours before taking another lozenge.
- Do not exceed 8 lozenges in any 24-hour period.
| Age Group | Dose | Frequency | Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults and children aged 12+ | 1 lozenge | Every 2–3 hours as needed | 8 lozenges in 24 hours |
| Children under 12 | Not suitable — do not use | ||
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry?
Like all medicines, Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most people tolerate them well when used as directed.
Common side effects:
- Mild tingling or numbness in the mouth or throat (this is expected from the lidocaine)
- Temporary altered taste sensation
Less common side effects:
- Mouth or throat irritation
- Nausea
- Hypersensitivity reactions including skin rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention if this occurs
If you experience any side effect that concerns you, or if symptoms worsen rather than improve, stop using the lozenges and speak to your pharmacist or GP. Serious allergic reactions to lidocaine are rare but require prompt medical attention.
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry 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 store in a bathroom or near a sink where moisture could affect the lozenges
Unused lozenges should be disposed of safely. Your local pharmacy can advise on medicine disposal. If you're building a home medicine cabinet for winter illnesses, you might also find our Vitamins and Supplements collection useful for immune support products to use alongside symptomatic treatments.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/treatment/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tonsillitis/
- 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 Triple Action Cherry Lozenges online in the UK?
You can buy Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges 24 Pack directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £5.50, with fast UK delivery to your home. Cured Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, so you can order with confidence knowing your medicines are dispensed safely and legally. No prescription is needed as these lozenges are a General Sale List medicine.
How do Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges work in the body?
Each lozenge contains two antiseptic agents — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol — which kill bacteria on contact in the throat, helping to reduce bacterial load at the site of infection. Lidocaine hydrochloride, a local anaesthetic, temporarily blocks nerve signals in the throat lining to numb pain quickly. The slow-dissolving lozenge format keeps these active ingredients in contact with the throat tissue for longer than a liquid or spray.
How do I use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges step by step?
Place one lozenge in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew or swallow it whole. Let it coat the back of your throat as it dissolves, then wait at least 2–3 hours before taking another. You can take up to 8 lozenges in a 24-hour period, but do not exceed this amount.
What is the correct dose of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges for adults?
Adults and children aged 12 and over should take one lozenge every 2–3 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 8 lozenges in 24 hours. Do not take more than the recommended dose even if symptoms feel severe. If pain is not controlled at the maximum dose, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
When is the best time to use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Use a lozenge whenever your sore throat pain is at its most uncomfortable — many people find them particularly helpful before meals, when swallowing is most painful, or before going to sleep. Because the lidocaine provides relatively fast numbing, taking a lozenge 10–15 minutes before eating can make mealtimes more manageable. Space doses evenly throughout the day and avoid taking them more frequently than every 2 hours.
What are the side effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
Most people tolerate these lozenges well. The most commonly noticed effect is a temporary tingling or numbness in the mouth and throat, which is the expected action of the lidocaine. Less commonly, some people experience mild mouth or throat irritation, or a temporary change in taste. Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling can occur — if this happens, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.
How do I manage side effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
The tingling or numbness in your mouth is a normal response to the lidocaine and will pass once the lozenge has fully dissolved and the anaesthetic wears off. If you experience persistent irritation or discomfort, try spacing doses further apart or reducing the number of lozenges you take per day. For any signs of an allergic reaction — swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention.
Can children use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
These lozenges are not suitable for children under 12 years of age due to the lidocaine content. Children aged 12 and over may use them under adult supervision, following the same dosage as adults. For younger children with sore throats, speak to your pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives — you can also explore our Baby and Toddler collection for suitable products.
Are Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges safe to use during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist before using these lozenges. The antiseptic ingredients are used at low concentrations, but the safety of lidocaine-containing OTC products during pregnancy has not been fully established in clinical trials. Your healthcare provider can advise on the safest option for your individual circumstances.
Who is eligible to use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have a sore throat with pain. They are not suitable for anyone with a known allergy to lidocaine or amide-type local anaesthetics, or for children under 12. People with liver disease, those taking antiarrhythmic medicines, or those who are pregnant should seek pharmacist or GP advice before use.
What happens if I take too many Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
Taking more than 8 lozenges in 24 hours increases the risk of side effects from lidocaine, including excessive numbness, dizziness, or in rare cases more serious effects on the heart or nervous system. If you think you or someone else has taken too many, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E. Always keep medicines out of reach of children.
How long can you use Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges for?
Do not use these lozenges for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a pharmacist or GP. Most sore throats caused by viral infections improve within 7–10 days according to NHS guidance, but if your symptoms are not improving after 3 days of lozenge use, you should seek professional advice to rule out a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics or another underlying cause.
What are the alternatives to Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Alternatives include standard Strepsils Original lozenges (without lidocaine, suitable from age 6), Difflam throat spray (benzydamine, anti-inflammatory), or systemic pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for throat pain. The right choice depends on the severity of your symptoms and any contraindications you may have. Browse our full Ear, Nose & Throat collection to compare available options.
Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges actually kill bacteria?
Yes — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol are established antiseptic agents that have demonstrated antibacterial activity against common throat pathogens in laboratory studies. However, it is important to understand that most sore throats are caused by viruses, against which antibacterial agents have no direct effect. The lozenges help reduce bacterial load and relieve symptoms, but they are not a substitute for antibiotics when a confirmed bacterial infection requires treatment.
What are the latest studies on Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
Clinical evidence supports the use of antiseptic lozenges containing amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol for symptomatic relief of sore throats, with studies showing reductions in throat pain scores compared to placebo. The addition of lidocaine in the Extra formulation provides a faster onset of pain relief due to its local anaesthetic mechanism. For the most current clinical data, refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics available on the Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC) at medicines.org.uk.
Description
What Are Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges?
A sore throat can stop you in your tracks — whether it's the scratchy discomfort of a cold or the sharper pain that makes swallowing feel like a chore. Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine designed to tackle that discomfort from three angles at once: killing bacteria, numbing pain, and soothing the throat. Each cherry-flavoured lozenge contains a local anaesthetic alongside two established antibacterial agents, making it one of the more targeted options available without a prescription. You can browse the full range of throat and respiratory products in our Ear, Nose & Throat collection if you're looking for additional support.
Sore throats are extremely common in the UK. The NHS notes that most are caused by viral infections and resolve on their own within a week, but bacterial involvement can prolong symptoms and increase discomfort. These lozenges are intended for adults and children aged 12 and over who need fast-acting, localised relief while the body fights off infection.
How Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges Work?
The "triple action" in the name refers to three distinct mechanisms working together in each lozenge:
- Antibacterial action: Amylmetacresol (0.6 mg) and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol (1.2 mg) are antiseptic agents that disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria present in the throat, reducing bacterial load at the site of infection.
- Local anaesthetic effect: Lidocaine hydrochloride (10 mg) temporarily blocks nerve signals in the throat lining, providing fast numbing relief from pain and the urge to swallow uncomfortably.
- Soothing delivery: The lozenge format encourages slow dissolution in the mouth, allowing the active ingredients to coat the throat gradually and maintain contact with affected tissue for longer than a spray or liquid might.
It's worth noting that while the antibacterial agents target bacteria, they won't treat a viral sore throat at its root cause — but they can help prevent secondary bacterial infection and ease symptoms in the meantime.
Who Should Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for most adults and teenagers who are experiencing a sore throat with pain. They're particularly useful when over-the-counter pain relief alone isn't cutting through the discomfort, or when you need something you can use discreetly during the day.
- Adults aged 18 and over with a sore throat caused by a cold, flu, or mild bacterial infection
- Teenagers aged 12–17 (under adult supervision where appropriate)
- People who prefer a localised treatment rather than systemic oral painkillers
- Those who want a cherry-flavoured option that's easy to take without water
They are not suitable for children under 12, people with a known allergy to lidocaine or other amide-type local anaesthetics, or anyone with a known hypersensitivity to any of the other ingredients. If you have a severe sore throat, difficulty breathing, or a high fever, you should seek medical advice rather than relying on lozenges alone.
How Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action Lozenges Compare to Standard Strepsils?
| Feature | Strepsils Extra Triple Action | Standard Strepsils (Original) |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredients | Amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol, lidocaine HCl | Amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol |
| Pain-numbing effect | Yes — lidocaine provides local anaesthesia | No dedicated anaesthetic |
| Antibacterial action | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum age | 12 years | 6 years |
| Best suited for | Moderate to more painful sore throats | Mild sore throats and early symptoms |
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Store your Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're stocking up on medicines for winter, it's also worth checking our Cold and Flu collection for complementary products to keep at home.
Each pack contains 24 lozenges, giving you a useful supply for a typical short-term illness. The cherry flavour makes them more palatable than some medicated lozenges, which can be a real help when your throat is already sensitive.
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 Cherry Lozenges 24 Pack specifications
| Treatment category | Sore throat relief |
| Mechanism of action | Antibacterial (amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol) + local anaesthetic (lidocaine HCl) |
| Effective for | Sore throat pain and bacterial throat infections |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 12 and over |
| Active ingredients | Amylmetacresol 0.6 mg, 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 1.2 mg, Lidocaine hydrochloride 10 mg per lozenge |
| Pack size | 24 lozenges |
| UK classification | General Sale List (GSL) |
| Drug class | Antiseptic / Local anaesthetic combination |
| Preparation | Lozenge |
| Route of administration | Oromucosal (dissolved slowly in the mouth) |
Specifications of Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges 24 Pack
What Is Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry and What Is It Used For?
Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges are an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the pain and discomfort of sore throats in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each lozenge combines two antiseptic agents with a local anaesthetic to provide both antibacterial and pain-relieving effects directly at the site of infection. They are used for symptomatic relief of sore throats associated with colds, flu, and mild upper respiratory tract infections. They do not treat the underlying viral cause of a cold, but they can make symptoms significantly more manageable while your body recovers.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry?
Before using these lozenges, read the following carefully. Some people should not use this product or should seek advice first.
Do not use if you:
- Are under 12 years of age
- Are allergic to lidocaine, any other amide-type local anaesthetic, or any other ingredient in the lozenge
- Have a known hypersensitivity to amylmetacresol or 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol
Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have liver disease, as lidocaine is metabolised hepatically
- Have a severe or worsening sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or a high temperature above 38°C
- Have had a sore throat lasting more than 3 days without improvement
- Are taking any prescribed medicines, particularly antiarrhythmics or other medicines affecting heart rhythm
Drug interactions to be aware of:
- Lidocaine may interact with antiarrhythmic drugs such as amiodarone or mexiletine — seek pharmacist advice if you take these
- No clinically significant interactions are expected at the recommended OTC dose for most people
If you're managing other health conditions alongside a sore throat, our Pain Relief collection includes a range of systemic options that may complement localised throat treatment.
How Should You Use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Using these lozenges correctly ensures you get the most benefit from each dose. Follow these steps:
- Place one lozenge in your mouth.
- Allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew or swallow it whole.
- Let the lozenge coat the back of your throat as it dissolves.
- Wait at least 2–3 hours before taking another lozenge.
- Do not exceed 8 lozenges in any 24-hour period.
| Age Group | Dose | Frequency | Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults and children aged 12+ | 1 lozenge | Every 2–3 hours as needed | 8 lozenges in 24 hours |
| Children under 12 | Not suitable — do not use | ||
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry?
Like all medicines, Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most people tolerate them well when used as directed.
Common side effects:
- Mild tingling or numbness in the mouth or throat (this is expected from the lidocaine)
- Temporary altered taste sensation
Less common side effects:
- Mouth or throat irritation
- Nausea
- Hypersensitivity reactions including skin rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention if this occurs
If you experience any side effect that concerns you, or if symptoms worsen rather than improve, stop using the lozenges and speak to your pharmacist or GP. Serious allergic reactions to lidocaine are rare but require prompt medical attention.
How Should You Store Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry 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 store in a bathroom or near a sink where moisture could affect the lozenges
Unused lozenges should be disposed of safely. Your local pharmacy can advise on medicine disposal. If you're building a home medicine cabinet for winter illnesses, you might also find our Vitamins and Supplements collection useful for immune support products to use alongside symptomatic treatments.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/treatment/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tonsillitis/
- 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 Triple Action Cherry Lozenges online in the UK?
You can buy Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges 24 Pack directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £5.50, with fast UK delivery to your home. Cured Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, so you can order with confidence knowing your medicines are dispensed safely and legally. No prescription is needed as these lozenges are a General Sale List medicine.
How do Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges work in the body?
Each lozenge contains two antiseptic agents — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol — which kill bacteria on contact in the throat, helping to reduce bacterial load at the site of infection. Lidocaine hydrochloride, a local anaesthetic, temporarily blocks nerve signals in the throat lining to numb pain quickly. The slow-dissolving lozenge format keeps these active ingredients in contact with the throat tissue for longer than a liquid or spray.
How do I use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges step by step?
Place one lozenge in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly — do not chew or swallow it whole. Let it coat the back of your throat as it dissolves, then wait at least 2–3 hours before taking another. You can take up to 8 lozenges in a 24-hour period, but do not exceed this amount.
What is the correct dose of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges for adults?
Adults and children aged 12 and over should take one lozenge every 2–3 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 8 lozenges in 24 hours. Do not take more than the recommended dose even if symptoms feel severe. If pain is not controlled at the maximum dose, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
When is the best time to use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Use a lozenge whenever your sore throat pain is at its most uncomfortable — many people find them particularly helpful before meals, when swallowing is most painful, or before going to sleep. Because the lidocaine provides relatively fast numbing, taking a lozenge 10–15 minutes before eating can make mealtimes more manageable. Space doses evenly throughout the day and avoid taking them more frequently than every 2 hours.
What are the side effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
Most people tolerate these lozenges well. The most commonly noticed effect is a temporary tingling or numbness in the mouth and throat, which is the expected action of the lidocaine. Less commonly, some people experience mild mouth or throat irritation, or a temporary change in taste. Rarely, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling can occur — if this happens, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.
How do I manage side effects of Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
The tingling or numbness in your mouth is a normal response to the lidocaine and will pass once the lozenge has fully dissolved and the anaesthetic wears off. If you experience persistent irritation or discomfort, try spacing doses further apart or reducing the number of lozenges you take per day. For any signs of an allergic reaction — swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention.
Can children use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
These lozenges are not suitable for children under 12 years of age due to the lidocaine content. Children aged 12 and over may use them under adult supervision, following the same dosage as adults. For younger children with sore throats, speak to your pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives — you can also explore our Baby and Toddler collection for suitable products.
Are Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges safe to use during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist before using these lozenges. The antiseptic ingredients are used at low concentrations, but the safety of lidocaine-containing OTC products during pregnancy has not been fully established in clinical trials. Your healthcare provider can advise on the safest option for your individual circumstances.
Who is eligible to use Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
These lozenges are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who have a sore throat with pain. They are not suitable for anyone with a known allergy to lidocaine or amide-type local anaesthetics, or for children under 12. People with liver disease, those taking antiarrhythmic medicines, or those who are pregnant should seek pharmacist or GP advice before use.
What happens if I take too many Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
Taking more than 8 lozenges in 24 hours increases the risk of side effects from lidocaine, including excessive numbness, dizziness, or in rare cases more serious effects on the heart or nervous system. If you think you or someone else has taken too many, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E. Always keep medicines out of reach of children.
How long can you use Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges for?
Do not use these lozenges for more than 3 consecutive days without consulting a pharmacist or GP. Most sore throats caused by viral infections improve within 7–10 days according to NHS guidance, but if your symptoms are not improving after 3 days of lozenge use, you should seek professional advice to rule out a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics or another underlying cause.
What are the alternatives to Strepsils Extra Triple Action Cherry Lozenges?
Alternatives include standard Strepsils Original lozenges (without lidocaine, suitable from age 6), Difflam throat spray (benzydamine, anti-inflammatory), or systemic pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for throat pain. The right choice depends on the severity of your symptoms and any contraindications you may have. Browse our full Ear, Nose & Throat collection to compare available options.
Do Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges actually kill bacteria?
Yes — amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol are established antiseptic agents that have demonstrated antibacterial activity against common throat pathogens in laboratory studies. However, it is important to understand that most sore throats are caused by viruses, against which antibacterial agents have no direct effect. The lozenges help reduce bacterial load and relieve symptoms, but they are not a substitute for antibiotics when a confirmed bacterial infection requires treatment.
What are the latest studies on Strepsils Extra Triple Action lozenges?
Clinical evidence supports the use of antiseptic lozenges containing amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol for symptomatic relief of sore throats, with studies showing reductions in throat pain scores compared to placebo. The addition of lidocaine in the Extra formulation provides a faster onset of pain relief due to its local anaesthetic mechanism. For the most current clinical data, refer to the Summary of Product Characteristics available on the Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC) at medicines.org.uk.
