Common questions about Strepsils (FAQ)
Q: How quickly can I expect Strepsils to start relieving a sore throat?
Research and official information suggest relief may be experienced quickly. For the antiseptic variants, relief may be experienced as early as 5 minutes after administration. For the flurbiprofen (NSAID) variants, relief is typically expected within 30 minutes.
Q: Is a tingling or numbing sensation in the mouth normal after using Strepsils lozenges with a local anesthetic?
For lozenges that contain flurbiprofen, official product information lists a discomforting or tingling sensation in the mouth as a common adverse effect. Furthermore, the antiseptic ingredient, dichlorobenzyl alcohol, is documented to possess local anesthetic-like properties.
Q: Are there any Strepsils products available that are sugar-free or suitable for people with diabetes?
Some product variants are officially described as containing sugars such as sucrose and glucose. However, certain specialized product lines, particularly those containing flurbiprofen (Strepsils Intensive), are also manufactured and available in sugar-free formulations.
Q: What is the risk of overdose if a person consumes too many Strepsils lozenges?
Official documentation indicates that exceeding the stated dose may lead to symptoms. For the antiseptic variants, a primary effect noted is gastrointestinal discomfort. For the flurbiprofen variant, signs can include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and dizziness.
Q: Do lozenges like Strepsils only work because they increase saliva production?
The official description clarifies the action is related to the active ingredients, which have specific pharmacological mechanisms. These include local antiseptic properties or inhibiting the enzymes responsible for inflammation (NSAID action), distinguishing their function from that of a non-medicated lozenge.
Q: What is the difference in action between the standard Strepsils and the 'Intensive' or 'Max' range?
The difference is based on their active ingredients. Standard lozenges contain antiseptics (Amylmetacresol/2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol) that provide a local anesthetic-like effect. The Intensive range contains the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) Flurbiprofen, which provides anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing action directly at the site of inflammation.
Q: Is Strepsils considered a medicine or is it just a regular candy or lozenge?
The product is classified by regulatory bodies as an over-the-counter (OTC) medicinal product. It is a regulated substance used for the symptomatic relief of mouth and throat infections, distinguishing it from regular candies.
Q: Do different Strepsils variants (e.g., Intensive, Extra) have different active ingredients?
Yes, different product variants contain distinct active ingredients. These include a combination of two antiseptics, the NSAID Flurbiprofen, or the antiseptic combination with Levomenthol, each targeting symptoms in a different way.
Q: Is the entire Strepsils range suitable for children?
Product labeling indicates that the entire range is not suitable for all children, as different products have different age restrictions. Antiseptic lozenges are typically restricted to children over 6 years old, while the flurbiprofen (NSAID) lozenges are restricted to children over 12 years old.
Q: Does Strepsils contain any ingredients made from wheat or gluten?
Official product information states that the product contains liquid glucose sourced from wheat starch, which includes very low levels of gluten. Official guidance notes the presence of wheat starch and advises caution for individuals with a wheat allergy.
Q: Are there any side effects related to sleep patterns or mental state reported with Strepsils use?
For the flurbiprofen variant, uncommon adverse effects listed in regulatory documents can include effects on the central nervous system. Specifically, drowsiness and difficulty in falling asleep (insomnia) are documented.
Q: Can the active ingredients in Strepsils cause an upset stomach or digestive discomfort?
Yes, gastrointestinal discomfort is documented in the product's safety information. Common adverse reactions listed include nausea and diarrhoea, while abdominal pain and vomiting are listed as uncommon effects, particularly with the flurbiprofen variant.
Q: Is it possible to have a negative reaction to the dyes or flavorings in the lozenges?
Yes. Regulatory documents state that certain excipients (inactive ingredients), including specific dyes (such as Carmoisine and Ponceau 4R) and components of the flavourings, may cause allergic or hypersensitivity reactions.
Q: Why are Strepsils sometimes listed as a Schedule 3 or Pharmacy-Only medicine in some regions?
Strepsils containing the active ingredient flurbiprofen are classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Due to the potential for systemic risks associated with NSAIDs, regulatory bodies often require these products to be sold under pharmacy supervision in certain jurisdictions.
Q: Are there any religious or dietary restrictions that the inactive ingredients in Strepsils might conflict with?
Official product documents list all excipients (inactive ingredients) used in the lozenges, which include substances such as sucrose, glucose, flavouring components, and colouring agents. This list is provided so that it can be reviewed against specific dietary or religious requirements.
Q: Do the ingredients in Strepsils lozenges have any known effect on blood pressure?
For lozenges containing flurbiprofen, official safety documents list high blood pressure and fluid retention (oedema) among adverse reactions where the frequency cannot be estimated. Additionally, flurbiprofen may interact with and reduce the effect of certain blood pressure-lowering medications.
Q: Why do some Strepsils variants have a cooling effect while others do not?
The cooling effect is often due to the inclusion of an ingredient like Levomenthol. Regulatory descriptions note that Levomenthol has a mild local anaesthetic action on the throat and is used to relieve symptoms such as cough and nasal congestion.
Q: Is there a version of Strepsils that specifically addresses the symptom of a blocked nose?
Yes, one variant is formulated with active ingredients for the symptomatic relief of mouth and throat infections, and it is specifically indicated for use in patients experiencing nasal congestion.
