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Benzydamine

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Benzydamine is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used as a topical treatment for painful inflammatory conditions of the mouth and throat. It is commonly prescribed or recommended for conditions like sore throat and mouth ulcers.

Quick summary

Benzydamine is a topical NSAID that provides pain relief and reduces inflammation in the mouth and throat.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
A01AD02
RxNorm
1425
Generic
Benzydamine
Class
atc-a01
Brands
—
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
oral, topical
Forms
spray, cream
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)tablet
Usual dose
500mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
250mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
400mg daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single oral dose greater than 1500mg may cause serious toxicity, though cases of severe poisoning are rare
Chronic overdose: Prolonged use exceeding recommended doses may lead to cumulative CNS effects and gastrointestinal complications
Immediate actions
Gastric lavage within 1-2 hours of ingestion if large dose, activated charcoal administration, supportive care, monitoring of vital signs
Antidote
No specific antidote available(N/A - treatment is supportive and symptomatic)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

7 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

use only if benefits outweigh potential risks, avoid prolonged use

Monitor

regular prenatal care

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

pregnancy

third trimester
contraindicated
FDA Category
D
Dose Adjustment

do not use

Key Recommendations

avoid use in third trimester due to risk of premature closure of ductus arteriosus and prolonged labor

Monitor

fetal monitoring if exposed

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

lactation

breastfeeding
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

minimal systemic absorption when used topically, but caution advised

Monitor

monitor infant for adverse effects

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pediatric_age

children under 12
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

age-specific dosing required

Key Recommendations

not recommended for children under 12 years due to limited safety data

Monitor

monitor for adverse reactions

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

geriatric

elderly
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce frequency if needed

Key Recommendations

use with caution due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects

Monitor

monitor renal function and for gastrointestinal effects

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment typically needed for topical use

Key Recommendations

use with caution, minimal systemic absorption expected

Monitor

monitor renal function periodically

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

hepatic_impairment

mild to moderate
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment typically needed for topical use

Key Recommendations

use with caution, monitor for adverse effects

Monitor

periodic liver function monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

Statistics and clinical data

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:NSAID

Drug class information

prescribingRegulatory agencies
2023

First marketed

Value:1960s

First introduction to market

usageMedical guidelines
2023

Common uses

Value:Topical pain relief for sore throat, mouth ulcers, musculoskeletal conditions

Common therapeutic uses

formulationPharmaceutical databases
2023

Common formulations

Value:Oral rinse, topical gel, spray, tablets

Available dosage forms

Benzydamine is used to treat inflammatory and painful conditions of the oral cavity and throat, including sore throat, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, gingivitis, stomatitis, and mouth ulcers. It is also available as a topical cream for musculoskeletal conditions such as sprains and strains.

Benzydamine works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are substances involved in inflammation and pain. It also has local anesthetic and mild antimicrobial properties, providing multi-faceted relief when applied directly to the affected area.

Benzydamine is generally well-tolerated when used topically as directed. Common side effects may include local burning or stinging sensation. It should not be swallowed in large amounts when used as a mouthwash. As with all medications, patients should follow package directions or medical advice regarding proper use and duration of treatment.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy