What is the recommended age for Difflam (benzidamine) throat spray?

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Last updated: April 23, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Difflam throat spray (containing benzydamine hydrochloride) is generally recommended for adults and children over 12 years of age, with a typical dosage of 4-8 sprays directly onto the sore throat area every 1.5-3 hours as needed, based on the most recent and highest quality study available 1.

Key Considerations

  • For children aged 6-12 years, Difflam throat spray should only be used under adult supervision, with a reduced dosage of 4 sprays every 1.5-3 hours.
  • Difflam is not recommended for children under 6 years old due to potential difficulties in using the spray correctly or increased sensitivity to the medication.
  • The age restriction is based on benzydamine's mechanism of action as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which works locally to reduce pain and inflammation in the throat.

Important Notes

  • If treating a child under 12, always consult a healthcare provider first to ensure safe and effective use of Difflam throat spray.
  • For persistent sore throat symptoms lasting more than 3 days, especially if accompanied by fever, seek medical advice as this could indicate a more serious condition requiring different treatment.
  • The most recent study 1 supports the use of benzydamine hydrochloride for the treatment of sore throat and irritative/inflammatory conditions of the oropharynx, with a high percentage of general practitioners and pharmacists recommending it for this purpose.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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