What Defines a Lozenge?
A lozenge is a small, solid, often medicated tablet that dissolves slowly in the mouth to soothe a sore throat or stop a cough. Unlike regular sweets, medicated lozenges contain active pharmaceutical ingredients designed for therapeutic effects. Strepsils fall directly into this category, delivering medicine to the site of pain and infection. Sucking on the lozenge stimulates saliva production, which helps to lubricate and soothe the painful area, while the active ingredients get to work.
The Pharmacology of Strepsils: How They Work
The effectiveness of Strepsils lies in their active ingredients, which vary depending on the product type. Most standard Strepsils lozenges contain a combination of two antiseptics: amylmetacresol (AMC) and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol (DCBA).
Core Antiseptic Action
- Amylmetacresol: This compound has antiseptic properties that help kill bacteria and viruses associated with mouth and throat infections. It works by disrupting the cell membranes of these microorganisms.
- 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol: Working in synergy with AMC, DCBA is another mild antiseptic that combats pathogens. It also has a local anesthetic effect, reversibly blocking ion channels to help numb pain.
This dual-action formula has been shown to have virucidal effects against several respiratory viruses in vitro, including influenza A and SARS-CoV. Clinical studies demonstrate that this combination provides pain relief starting within five minutes and lasting for up to two hours.
Advanced Formulations for Specific Symptoms
Strepsils offers a range of products targeting different levels of pain and symptoms:
- Strepsils Intensive (Strepfen): For more severe pain, these lozenges contain Flurbiprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Flurbiprofen works by targeting inflammation, the root cause of the pain, providing relief for up to four hours.
- Strepsils Extra and Plus: These versions contain local anesthetics like Hexylresorcinol or Lidocaine. These ingredients provide a powerful numbing effect for very painful sore throats.
- Strepsils for Cough: Some products include ingredients like Dextromethorphan for dry coughs or Ambroxol for chesty coughs, acting as a cough suppressant or expectorant, respectively.
Strepsils Product Line: A Comparison
Different sore throats require different treatments. The Strepsils range is formulated to address a variety of symptoms, from mild irritation to severe, inflamed pain.
| Product Type | Key Active Ingredient(s) | Primary Use | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strepsils Original / Honey & Lemon | Amylmetacresol, 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol | Mild sore throat, antiseptic action | Adults and children over 6 |
| Strepsils Orange with Vitamin C | AMC, DCBA, Ascorbic Acid | Mild sore throat with immune support | Adults and children over 6 |
| Strepsils Extra Strength | Hexylresorcinol | Antiseptic and anesthetic for moderate pain | Adults and children over 6 |
| Strepsils Intensive / Strepfen | Flurbiprofen | Anti-inflammatory relief for painful, swollen throats | Adults and children over 12 |
| Strepsils Plus | AMC, DCBA, Lidocaine | Strong numbing action for severe throat pain | Adults and children over 12 |
| Strepsils for Children 6+ | AMC, DCBA (Sugar-Free) | Soothing relief for children's sore throats | Children over 6 years |
Proper Use and Safety Considerations
For most standard Strepsils lozenges, the recommended usage involves dissolving one lozenge slowly in the mouth periodically throughout the day as needed. It is crucial not to chew the lozenge, as this reduces its effectiveness.
Potential Side Effects: While generally well-tolerated, side effects can occur, especially with overuse. These may include:
- Mouth or tongue irritation
- Digestive discomfort
- Rarely, allergic reactions like rash or swelling
- Products with Flurbiprofen (NSAID) carry risks similar to other NSAIDs.
Always read the package leaflet before use. Lozenges can be a choking hazard and are not recommended for children under 6 years old. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before use. If symptoms persist for more than three days, seek medical advice.
Conclusion: A Medicated Tool for Sore Throat Management
To answer the question directly: Yes, Strepsils is unequivocally a medicated lozenge. It is not merely a soothing candy but a carefully formulated over-the-counter medication designed to deliver active ingredients directly to the source of throat pain and infection. With a diverse product line featuring antiseptics, anti-inflammatories, and anesthetics, Strepsils provides targeted relief for a wide spectrum of sore throat symptoms. Understanding the specific ingredients and their pharmacological actions allows consumers to choose the right product for their needs, making it an effective tool in managing the discomfort of a sore throat.
For more information on the clinical characteristics of these products, you can refer to resources like the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC).
