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Detailed medicine guidance

How and when to use benzydamine

NHS medicines information on dosage for benzydamine, how to use it and what to do if you miss a dose or use too much.

About this information

This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.

How to use benzydamine

There are different ways of using benzydamine.

How to use mouthwash

Gargle with the mouthwash or rinse it around your mouth for about 20 to 30 seconds, then spit it out.

Use the measuring cup that comes with your medicine, so you get the right dose.

Do not swallow the mouthwash.

Wait at least 1 hour and 30 minutes between doses.

How to use mouth spray

There should be a plastic tube called a spray arm at the top of the bottle. This helps a sore throat because the spray can reach the back of the throat to control the pain.

  1. Hold the bottle in an upright position and gently lift the spray arm so it’s sticking straight out.
  2. When using the spray for the first time, point the spray arm away from your face and press the plunger at the top of the bottle a few times until a fine mist comes out.
  3. Aim the spray arm at the sore part of your throat or mouth and press the plunger. Press the plunger the number of spray doses needed. It can go up to 4 times or 8 times for some adult doses.
  4. Wipe the end of the spray arm with a clean tissue when you've finished. This will stop it becoming blocked.
  5. Push the spray arm down, to rest against the side of the bottle.

Keep benzydamine away from your eyes.

How to take lozenges

When you have a lozenge, put it in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly. Do not chew or swallow it whole.

View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.

Licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0 ↗. MyPHU is independent and is not endorsed by the NHS.

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