What Is Strepsil?
Strepsil is a type of lozenge specifically manufactured to help alleviate throat pain. This lozenge is produced by Reckitt Benckiser, a multinational company based in the UK. It was first introduced to the public in 1958 and continues to be produced and developed with various flavor options. Strepsils contains active ingredients that can kill the bacteria causing throat pain, namely amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol.
Types and Ingredients of Strepsils
The name "Strepsil" may sound like "streptococcus," a bacterium often responsible for throat pain. The product name is derived from the first part of the bacterium's name. Bacterial infections, which can come from various sources including food and drinks entering through the throat, can cause throat pain. In Indonesia, several Strepsils variants are available:
- Strepsils Original 8 Tablets and Strepsils Original 12 Tablets
- Strepsils Menthol 8 Tablets and Strepsils Menthol 12 Tablets
- Strepsils Menthol and Vanilla
- Strepsils Honey Lemon 8 Tablets and Strepsils Honey Lemon 12 Tablets
- Strepsils Sugar Free Lemon 8 Tablets
- Strepsils Vitamin C Orange 8 Tablets
All types of Strepsils contain the same active ingredients: amylmetacresol and dichlorobenzyl alcohol. The Strepsils Vitamin C Orange variant also contains an additional 100 mg of ascorbic acid (vitamin C).
Dosage of Strepsils
For relieving throat pain in adults and children over 6 years old, the recommended dosage is 1 lozenge every 2–3 hours. Do not consume more than 12 lozenges in a day.
Instructions for Using Strepsils
Read the usage instructions on the packaging before consuming Strepsils. Do not exceed or reduce the recommended dosage. To make throat treatment more effective, follow these guidelines:
- Strepsils can be consumed before or after meals.
- Suck the lozenge slowly until it dissolves in the mouth.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Overuse can lead to digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea.
- Consult a doctor if throat pain persists after using Strepsils for 3 days.
- Store Strepsils at room temperature (below 30°C), in a dry place, and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Strepsil lozenges should actually be avoided by certain individuals. The following groups of people should not consume Strepsil lozenges:
- Toddlers or children under six years old
- Those with a history of allergies to certain sweeteners like fructose, galactose malabsorption, or anyone sensitive to various additional sweeteners
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as it may pose general health risks for them
Benefits of Strepsils
According to the active ingredients found in Strepsil lozenges, namely amylmetacresol and dichlorobenzyl alcohol, these lozenges can address various types of throat issues. Here are the details about the benefits of Strepsil lozenges:
1. Relieves Throat Discomfort
When you are tired or about to catch a cold, your throat may become uncomfortable. It can sometimes feel painful, especially when eating or drinking. To address this discomfort, you can use Strepsil lozenges, such as Strepsil Original.
2. Treats Sore Throat
Sore throat is a common condition affecting both children and adults. Strepsil lozenges can help treat sore throat because they contain active ingredients that can kill bacteria and germs in the throat. Recommended variants include Strepsil Original, Strepsil Sore Throat and Blocked Nose, and Strepsil Sore Throat and Cough.
3. Reduces Throat Pain from Coughing
Coughing often causes throat pain. Persistent coughing, whether accompanied by a cold or not, can disrupt daily activities. Sometimes, coughing can also lead to throat infections. To relieve throat pain caused by coughing, you can use Strepsil Sore Throat and Cough. These lozenges also help alleviate throat pain from sore throat and coughing.
4. Supports Overall Health
Strepsil lozenges are not only for throat pain but can also help maintain overall health. Variants such as Strepsil Orange with Vitamin C and Strepsil Honey and Lemon can support the immune system, making them useful during extreme weather changes or for daily use. This is due to the beneficial properties of ingredients like orange, vitamin C, honey, and lemon, which help maintain the immune system.
5. Warms the Throat
Using lozenges during the rainy season can improve health and help prevent illness. Strepsil Warm is a type of lozenge that provides a warming sensation to the throat and can help prevent colds. Consuming it in moderation can help address and prevent flu.
6. Prevents Nasal Congestion
During a cold, throat pain and nasal congestion often occur together, which can hinder daily activities. To help alleviate nasal congestion and clear the upper respiratory passages, you can use Strepsil Sore Throat and Blocked Nose. This variant not only addresses throat pain but also relieves nasal congestion.
Side Effects and Risks of Strepsils
When used according to the instructions, Strepsils generally does not cause side effects. However, some individuals may experience the following complaints after consuming Strepsils:
- Burning or warm sensation in the mouth and tongue
- Tongue pain
- Diarrhea
- Stomach discomfort
Consult a doctor if you experience any of these side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you have an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling in the mouth and face, or difficulty breathing.
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