Strepsils with local anaesthetic: what to know

A local anaesthetic reduces sensation in a small area for a limited time. In a throat lozenge, this may make swallowing and speaking more comfortable while the underlying irritation settles. Numbness can also reduce your awareness of heat or injury, so take care with hot drinks and food until normal sensation returns.

Throat soreness may accompany a viral illness, irritation, reflux or another condition. Relief from a lozenge does not identify the cause. Check the product label for its active ingredients, age guidance and maximum use, especially if other throat or pain products are being taken.

Allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly rather than chewing or swallowing it whole. Follow the package directions and do not exceed the stated amount. Ask a pharmacist before use if you have allergies, take regular medicines, are pregnant, or are considering it for a child. Stop and seek advice if irritation, rash, unusual swelling or another new reaction appears.

Warm or cool fluids, rest and avoiding smoke can also soothe an irritated throat. Local anaesthetic is used in other procedures, including injections and nerve blocks, but those treatments are not interchangeable with a throat lozenge.

Get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, rapidly increasing throat or neck swelling, or a muffled voice. Arrange medical advice for severe or worsening pain, dehydration, a persistent high temperature, a rash, or symptoms that do not improve as expected. Repeated throat pain also deserves assessment rather than continued self-treatment alone.

What might be causing my throat pain? Is this lozenge suitable with my medicines or health conditions? How long should I use it, and which warning signs mean I need an examination?