Throat Sprays

A sore throat spray applies medicine straight to the back of your throat, where the pain is. Our range covers numbing sprays with a local anaesthetic, such as benzocaine or lidocaine, and anti-inflammatory sprays with benzydamine or flurbiprofen, from Difflam, Ultra Chloraseptic, Covonia and Strefen. Some are for adults only, and others can be used by children, so check the age on each spray before you choose.

Sore throat spray guide

Numbing and anti-inflammatory throat sprays

Each throat spray for sore throat relief in our range works in one of two main ways, and the active ingredient tells you which. The number of sprays per dose differs from one product to the next, so always follow the directions on the pack.

Spray type How it works Who it's for Product
NumbingBenzocaine A local anaesthetic used for the relief of sore throat pain. Adults and children aged 6 and over Ultra Chloraseptic
Numbing and antisepticLidocaine and chlorhexidine Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic, and chlorhexidine is an antiseptic. Adults and children over 12 Covonia
Anti-inflammatoryBenzydamine A locally acting analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatment for the throat and mouth. Adults and children, with a dose for under 6s based on body weight Difflam
Anti-inflammatory (NSAID)Flurbiprofen A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug for the short-term relief of acute sore throat. Adults aged 18 and over only Strefen

Who each sore throat spray is for

Adults only

Strefen Direct is for adults aged 18 years and over.

Strefen
Over 12

Covonia Sore Throat Spray is for adults and children over 12. It isn't for children under 12.

Covonia
Age 6 and over

Ultra Chloraseptic has a separate dose for children aged 6 to 12, who should use it only under adult supervision. It isn't for children under 6.

Ultra Chloraseptic
Including under 6s

Difflam Spray has a children's dose, and for children under 6 the dose is based on body weight.

Difflam

When to speak to a pharmacist

A throat spray is for short-term relief, and sprays aren't the only option. Our sore throat range also includes lozenges, which our guide to sore throat lozenges compares, and our guide to using sore throat sprays explains how to use a throat spray and whether a spray or a lozenge suits you better.

ⓘ If your sore throat is severe, isn't getting better, or comes with a fever, speak to a pharmacist or your GP. You can also book our sore throat and tonsillitis service, where a pharmacist assesses your symptoms.

Throat Sprays FAQs

What is the difference between a numbing throat spray and an anti-inflammatory throat spray?

A numbing throat spray uses a local anaesthetic, such as benzocaine or lidocaine, to relieve sore throat pain. An anti-inflammatory throat spray uses benzydamine or flurbiprofen instead. Ask a pharmacist if you’re not sure which suits you.

How many days can I use a sore throat spray for?

Don’t use Ultra Chloraseptic or Strefen Direct for more than 3 days. Covonia isn’t for prolonged use, and you should stop using Difflam if your sore throat gets worse or doesn’t improve. If your sore throat is severe or isn’t getting better, speak to a pharmacist or your GP.

Can I use a sore throat spray if I’m allergic to aspirin or anti-inflammatory painkillers?

Don’t use Strefen Direct if you’ve reacted to aspirin or another NSAID before. Difflam isn’t advisable either, and it may cause breathing problems if you have or have had asthma. Speak to a pharmacist before choosing a spray.