BENZYDAMINE,CHLORHEXIDINE GLUCONATE

Background and Date of Approval

The U.S. FDA approved benzydamine and chlorhexidine gluconate spray on 1st January 2013 for the treatment of pain and inflammation in the mouth. The formulation functions as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent.

Uses

Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray has been developed to treat pain and inflammation, including sore throat, tongue, or gums , mouth ulcers , post-dental surgery pain , discomfort caused by dentures , swelling, redness, and a feeling of heat in the mouth or throat.

How is it administered?

Spray directly into the mouth or throat surfaces, ulcers, or other sore areas. Spray as often as prescribed by your physician. Be careful that the Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate, and spray are not splashed in your eyes while using it. In case of accidental contact, wash your eyes immediately with cold water.

Side Effects

The most common side effect likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray is chest pain or tightness, difficulty, or shortness of breath. Some serious effects likely to occur while you are using Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray are allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock), severe skin itching, lumps on the skin, and facial swelling, lips, tongue, or throat.

Warnings

Talk to your physician if you have a history of asthma before taking Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray. Notify your doctor if you are allergic to Acetylsalicylic acid or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant before taking Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray. Consult whether this spray is safe to use or not in such conditions.

Precautions

Report to your physician immediately if you experience any symptoms, such as an allergic reaction or tightening of the throat or chest after using the spray. If you accidentally swallow it or splash the spray in your eyes, contact your doctor immediately for advice. Do not use the spray more than four times at the same time.

Word of Advice

Keep Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray out of sight and reach of children. Do not store above 25°C. If you experience chest tightness, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing while using Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray, inform your doctor.

References

Focus pharmaceuticals limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on May 2021] [ Accessed on 02 May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3348.pdf G Roopashri et al; Efficacy of benzydamine hydrochloride, chlorhexidine, and povidone iodine in the treatment of oral mucositis among patients undergoing radiotherapy in head and neck malignancies: A drug trail; Contemporary Clinical Dentistry; Published on March 2011; Accessed on 20/08/2021; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22114446

Frequently Asked Questions

Is that okay to use Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

The effectiveness of Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been established. It is better to consult your healthcare provider before using the spray in such conditions.

Can I use Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray?

If you have a known allergy or sensitivity to Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate or any of its ingredients, you should avoid using the spray. You should also consult your healthcare provider before using the spray if you have any other medical conditions or are taking other medications.

When should I stop using Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray?

Suppose you notice any side effect symptoms such as chest pain or tightness, difficulty or shortness of breath, allergic reaction (hypersensitivity), severe skin itching, lumps on the skin, or swelling (face, lips, tongue, or throat). In that case, you should stop using the spray and consult your healthcare provider immediately.

When should I eat or drink after using Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray?

It is recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after using Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray before eating or drinking. This will allow maximum absorption and efficiency of the spray.

How long should Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray be used?

You must use Benzydamine, Chlorhexidine gluconate spray for the period your doctor recommends. Overusing the spray may raise the chance of side effects; therefore, you should only take it for as long as is advised.

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS