FAQ

Most sore throats in the Philippines are caused by viral infections (colds, flu). They can also be caused by environmental irritants. Bacterial infections are less common but usually more severe. Viral sore throat usually develop gradually and may be accompanied by cough and colds. Bacterial infections typically present with throat pain, high fever, and pus on tonsils. Non-infectious causes include air pollution, sudden temperature changes (aircon to outdoor heat), and allergies.

See a doctor if symptoms last over 3-5 days, worsen, or include difficulty breathing, swallowing, or high fever (>38.5°C). For mild to moderate symptoms, pharmacists at drugstores like Mercury Drug or Watsons can recommend OTC medications like Benzydamine hydrochloride (Difflam) to reduce throat swelling and pain.

Benzydamine hydrochloride (Difflam) is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication containing benzydamine hydrochloride, which provides 3x action against sore throat as it relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and numbs throat pain. Benzydamine hydrochloride (Difflam) is the most recommended brand by most doctors to treat sore throat. It requires no prescription and is available nationwide. It relieves pain and swelling of mouth and throat conditions such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, and post-dental pain, less likely to cause stomach ulcers associated with oral NSAIDs like ibuprofen.

Benzydamine hydrochloride (Difflam) is sugar-free and which may be important for diabetics and can be used for children aged 6 and above with adult supervision. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use. Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without medical supervision.

All Difflam products contain benzydamine, which helps relieve sore throat pain and inflammation. Some Difflam products contain benzydamine only. Difflam Anti-inflammatory Antiseptic Lozenges contain benzydamine plus cetylpyridinium chloride, while Difflam-C Solution contains benzydamine plus chlorhexidine. The additional ingredients provide antiseptic action alongside relief of pain and inflammation. Use the product that best suits your symptoms and preferred format. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.

Difflam lozenges — available in the Philippines in flavors like Honey & Lemon, Mint, Orange, Eucalyptus & Menthol, and Raspberry — deliver benzydamine hydrochloride straight to the inflamed lining of the throat. As they slowly dissolve, they: 1) relieve local inflammation, 2) provide rapid throat pain relief (in as fast as 60 sec), and 3) stay in contact with the throat, stimulating soothing saliva flow.

Benzydamine (Difflam Forte) Throat Spray, sold in a 15ml bottle at Philippine drugstores, delivers a fine mist of benzydamine hydrochloride through a directional nozzle. Aimed at the pharynx and tonsils, Difflam Forte Throat Spray gives targeted numbing and quickly eases the pain of swallowing; aimed directly at a mouth ulcer (also called a canker sore) or other sore spot, it numbs the area and reduces surrounding swelling. Either way it absorbs in the local area of inflammation and reduces the risk of stomach ulcers that is associated with oral pain relievers— a convenient option when sucking on a lozenge isn't practical.

Yes. Both formats work in relieving swelling and pain associated with tonsillitis— but the spray reaches the tonsillar area directly, while the lozenges delivers more active ingredient in the mouth and throat with slower rate of clearance. Either is a reasonable choice depending on which feels more comfortable to use.

Yes — Difflam is commonly recommended by doctors, ENT specialists, and pharmacists in the Philippines as an effective, OTC first-line treatment for pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and pain after dental or throat procedures. Because Difflam works locally with anti inflammatory and numbing action, is less likely to cause stomach ulcers that is associated with oral pain relievers. It is often used alongside antibiotics where indicated when a doctor has diagnosed a bacterial infection.