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Strepsils are available in most supermarkets, drug stores and convenience stores as a gentle way to alleviate a sore throat. Most people have at least tried one at some point in their life whilst battling against a cold. However, Strepsils aren’t just flavoured sweets – they are medicinal sweets and do contain antiseptics 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol and Amylmetacresol and are not recommended for children below 6. This begs the question of whether Strepsils are safe to take while pregnant and if they are safe to take how many can you take in a 24 hour period for them to remain safe. Unlike antihistamines which are difficult to get while pregnant, you don’t need to see a pharmacist to get a hold of a box of them. The only deterrent is the wording on the back of the Strepsils box which states “If you are pregnant….contact your Doctor before taking this product”. This doesn’t mean they’re generally unsafe to take while pregnant but it does mean that it could be unsafe to some people. Are Strepsils safe to take while pregnant?Contents
Until there have been several mass trials conducted with pregnant women and the use of Strepsils no medical professional would risk their career by declaring them as safe, because they would open themselves up for criticism and lawsuits if something was to happen to a mother and/or baby after following their guidance. A pilot study was conducted, with favourable results but a large enough study to be conclusive. Studies involving pregnant women are notoriously difficult as mothers are often unwilling to put themselves and their child deliberately at risk and for good reason. The two problematic ingredients ar 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol and Amylmetacresol, which are there as an antiseptic for the sore throat. They’re designed to kill the bacteria which can infect the raw skin of the mouth and throat. They’re very mild hence why they as so easily purchasable and the quantities are so minute that they are unlikely to harm the mum and baby. But, they are strong enough to not be recommended for under 6s and have a maximum dosage of 12 a day for adults. Therefore, if you’re adamant on using Strepsils then don’t go over 6 a day. The Best For Parents recommendation is to not use Strepsils at all and opt for a natural alternative. What can I use instead of strepsils while pregnant?Honey and LemonThe trick is to use the flavour of Strepsils instead, which is honey and lemon. Boil the kettle and squeeze some honey and the juices of half a lemon into a cup and drink like a tea. The hot water and lemon can keep the bacteria at bay whilst the honey can soothe the sore area. It’s tasty , easy to make and you can make as many as you’d like. It also comes in handy as a replacement for a tea or coffee as you are probably on a caffeine strike as well! Salt WaterIf you’re thinking yuk! then you’re not far wrong. Salty water (not ocean water) can kill the bacteria in the sore area which will help your throat heal and get better. However, saltwater doesn’t go very far in terms of soothing nor is it a tasty beverage but it does work. ParacetamolParacetamol on its own or in conjunction with the above is safe to use within limits. This can help take the pain away whilst the honey and lemon/saltwater helps to deal with the soreness and possible infection. When to see a DoctorSome sore throats can lead to a throat infection which even Strepsils won’t help much with. If your throat doesn’t seem to be getting better (and getting worse) while you’re pregnant then you should visit your doctor as soon as possible who will be able to prescribe pregnancy-safe medicine to help clear it up. Never try and self-medicate while pregnant! Related Articles Gaviscon while pregnant UsesWhat is Strepsils® used for?Strepsils® are lozenges that have antiseptic properties. Antiseptics are chemicals or drugs used to kill microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses on living tissues. Antiseptics are different from antimicrobials because they are not ingested or administered through the blood nor do they have specific action against certain species of bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Strepsils® lozenges are available in a variety of flavors and formulations that aim to treat different illnesses. Unlike antibiotics, the lozenges can be bought over the counter without a prescription. They work best at the first sign of illness, before bacteria or other microorganisms have time to replicate and travel further down the throat. Strepsils® is mainly indicated for:
How should I take Strepsils®?Strepsils® is available as an oral lozenge. Open the package carefully and place one lozenge on your tongue. Allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly (approximately 15 to 30 minutes) in your mouth. Do not chew, crush, or swallow the lozenge. Avoid eating or drinking anything while the lozenge is in your mouth. How do I store Strepsils®?This drug should be stored at room temperature (<30°C) and be protected from moisture. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets. Always check the label before using this product. Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency. Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal. Precautions & WarningsWhat should I know before using Strepsils®?Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?There are no adequate and well-controlled studies using Strepsils® in pregnant women. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor. The active ingredients of Stepsils may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor. Side EffectsWhat side effects can occur when using Strepsils®?All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy. Potential side effects while using this drug include:
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you experience serious adverse reactions, you must stop taking the drug immediately. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist. InteractionsWhat drugs may interact with Strepsils®?This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. If you experience an adverse drug interaction, stop taking this drug and continue taking your other medication. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug. Does food or alcohol interact with Strepsils®?Strepsils® can be taken with or without meals, as there is no notable interaction. There are no notable interactions with alcohol. Avoid eating or drinking while the lozenge is in your mouth. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions. What health conditions may interact with Strepsils®?This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions. DosageThe information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Strepsils®. What is the dose of Strepsils® for an adult?
What is the dose of Strepsils® for a child?
How is Strepsils® available?This drug is available in the following variants, dosage forms, and strengths:
What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room. What should I do if I miss a dose?If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose. What throat lozenges are safe while pregnant?SORE THROAT. Ideally, to soothe a sore throat, we recommend gargling with salt water, or sipping lemon juice with honey.. Short term use of Betadine Gargle is generally considered safe in pregnancy.. Throat lozenges, such as Strepsils, are safe to use in pregnancy.. Are Strepsils safe during pregnancy NHS?Can Strepsils lozenges be taken during pregnancy and lactation? No adverse events associated with taking Strepsils basic range of products (Amylmetacresol/Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol) have been reported during either pregnancy and lactation.
What helps a sore throat when pregnant?Pregnant women can take acetaminophen (Tylenol) for a sore throat with a limit of 3,000 mg in 24 hours. An antihistamine may help if the sore throat is due to postnasal drip because it can dry up those secretions. Sprays or lozenges that contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic, can help numb the throat.
Can you have honey and lemon Strepsils while pregnant?Strepsils honey and lemon lozenges are not expected to be harmful if used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, as their safety has not been fully studied, and as with all medicines, you should get advice from your doctor, pharmacist or midwife before taking them if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Can pregnant women eat strepsils
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