Orocalm Citroensmaak (Benzydamine Hydrochloride)

Benzydamine hydrochloride provides local anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects in the oral cavity.

• Sore throat: reduces pain and inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa.
• Oral mucositis: alleviates inflammation and discomfort associated with mucosal lesions.
• Mouth ulcer pain: provides symptomatic relief of ulcer‑related pain.

• Benzydamine hydrochloride exerts its action locally by inhibiting the release of pro‑inflammatory cytokines such as IL‑1 and TNF‑α, stabilising cell membranes, and decreasing the sensitisation of peripheral nerve endings. It also possesses mild anesthetic properties, which together reduce pain, swelling and erythema in the oral mucosa without significant systemic absorption.

Benzydamine hydrochloride may cause local or systemic adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Taste alteration: transient metallic or bitter taste.
• Oral irritation: mild burning or tingling in the mouth.
• Dry mouth: temporary reduction in salivation.
• Nausea: occasional mild nausea after use.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe oral ulceration: worsening of mucosal lesions.
• Systemic hypersensitivity: rare anaphylactic response.

When using Benzydamine hydrochloride, consider the following precautions to ensure safe and effective therapy.

• Contraindication: avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to benzydamine or other NSAIDs.
• Pregnancy: use only if clearly needed; safety data are limited.
• Breastfeeding: caution advised; limited information on excretion in milk.
• Pediatric use: dosage and duration should be determined by a healthcare professional.
• Drug interactions: inform clinician of concurrent use of anticoagulants or other NSAIDs.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, in the original container, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Benzydamine hydrochloride can interact with certain medicines; awareness of these interactions helps prevent adverse effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding when combined with benzydamine.
• Other NSAIDs or topical anti‑inflammatories: additive irritation or ulceration of the oral mucosa.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Corticosteroids: may enhance local irritation.
• Antihistamines: possible reduction in benzydamine’s local anesthetic effect.
• Alcohol‑containing mouthwashes: may increase mucosal irritation.