Benzydamine

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Benzydamine works by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area. It inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators and has local anesthetic effects, providing targeted relief in the mouth and throat without significant systemic action.

PHARMACOKINETICS

Absorption

Benzydamine is poorly absorbed systemically when applied topically in the mouth or throat. Most of the drug stays at the site of application, which allows it to act locally with minimal systemic exposure, reducing the risk of side effects.

Distribution

Benzydamine, when applied locally, largely remains at the site of administration. If absorbed systemically, it is widely distributed in body tissues, particularly in the salivary glands, oral mucosa, and inflamed tissues, allowing effective local anti-inflammatory and analgesic action.

Metabolism

Benzydamine is primarily metabolized in the liver through hepatic hydroxylation and conjugation. The metabolites are mostly inactive, and this metabolism helps limit systemic effects when the drug is applied topically.

Excretion

Benzydamine and its metabolites are mainly excreted in the urine. Only a small amount is eliminated via feces, and because systemic absorption is minimal with topical use, most of the drug acts locally before being metabolized and excreted.

PHARMACODYNAMICS

Benzydamine produces local anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anesthetic effects by inhibiting inflammatory mediators and reducing tissue irritation. Its action is mostly at the site of application, providing targeted relief with minimal systemic effects.

ADMINISTRATION

Benzydamine is administered topically as a mouthwash, spray, or lozenge for pain and inflammation in the mouth and throat. It is usually used several times a day, directly on the affected area, to provide local relief.

DOSAGE AND STRENGTH

• Mouthwash/Rinse: 0.15% solution, usually 15 mL rinsed for 30–60 seconds, 3–4times daily.

• Spray: 0.15% solution, 2–4 sprays on the affected area, up to 4 times daily.

• Lozenges: 3 mg per lozenge, typically 1 lozenge every 1.5–3 hours as needed, not exceeding recommended daily limits.

FOOD INTERACTIONS

Benzydamine has minimal food interactions because it acts locally in the mouth and throat with very little systemic absorption. However, it is recommended to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using mouthwash or spray to ensure maximum effectiveness at the site of application.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

• Caution is advised when used with other topical oral products, as they may dilute or wash away benzydamine, reducing effectiveness. 

• Combining with other NSAIDs systemically is generally safe but may slightly increase the risk of local irritation. 

• No significant interactions with common systemic medications have been reported.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Benzydamine is contraindicated in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity orallergy to benzydamine or any of its formulation components. It should also be avoided in patients with open wounds in the mouth if irritation is severe, and in children under the recommended age according to the product label.

SIDE EFFECTS

• Burning or stinging sensation in the mouth or throat

• Numbness or tingling at the application site

• Dry mouth or altered taste

• Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or itching

 TOXICITY

Benzydamine has low systemic toxicity because it is mostly applied locally and poorly absorbed. Overdose may cause oral or throat irritation, nausea, or vomiting, but serious systemic effects are rare.