FAQs: Your Questions Answered

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Sore Throat FAQs

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Yes, sore throats can be contagious. Most sore throats are caused by viruses which infect the lining of the throat. The most common cause of sore throats are the viruses that cause the common cold (rhinoviruses). Because colds and flu can be passed from person to person from hand to mouth or by inhaling viral particles from the air, hand hygiene is an important part of helping prevent and avoid sore throats. Sometimes a sore throat is caused by allergy or the environment.

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At first, a sore throat may not look like much but feel more dry, scratchy or even tickly as the virus infects and destroys healthy cells in the lining of your throat. When your immune system starts to fight the infection, the cardinal signs of inflammation, such as redness, swelling/inflammation in your throat may be visible if you look in a mirror.

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To relieve a sore throat, you have a few options. If your throat is swollen or inflamed, you might consider a lozenge with anti-inflammatory action to help reduce the swelling and pain. If swallowing and talking is just downright painful, lozenges or sprays with anaesthetic relief can help relieve the pain.

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To treat a sore throat, you have a few options. If your throat is swollen or inflamed, you might consider a lozenge with anti-inflammatory action to help reduce the swelling and pain. Lozenges or sprays with anaesthetic relief can also help relieve the pain, while anti-bacterial treatments will help kill the germs that may be causing the sore throat.

About Difflam Products

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Difflam has a range of sore throat and mouth products available in New Zealand, including soothing drops and kids pops, medicated lozenges, throat sprays, gargles and mouth solutions, and a mouth gel. Most Difflam medicated products contain the anti-inflammatory benzydamine to target the swelling and pain of a sore throat, with some also containing an antibacterial and/or an anaesthetic.

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Difflam medicated products provide temporary relief from the pain and discomfort of a sore throat and painful mouth conditions. Depending on the product, Difflam reduces swelling and inflammation (anti-inflammatory action), kills bacteria that can cause mouth and throat infections (antibacterial action) and/or numbs the pain (anaesthetic action). Difflam Soothing Drops, Difflam Herbals and Difflam Kids Soothing Throat Pops are non-medicated options that soothe a dry, tickly throat.

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Most Difflam medicated products contain benzydamine, an anti-inflammatory that works directly at the site of inflammation in the mouth and throat to reduce swelling and pain. Some Difflam products also contain an antibacterial agent and Difflam Plus products add the anaesthetic lidocaine (lignocaine) to numb the pain.

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Difflam products work directly on the sore area of the mouth and throat, so they get to work quickly. Difflam Plus Anaesthetic Sore Throat Spray numbs the pain from 30 seconds, and Difflam Anaesthetic + Anti-Inflammatory + Antibacterial Lozenges soothes pain from 90 secondes. If your symptoms persist, see your doctor or pharmacist.

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Yes, most Difflam medicated products contain benzydamine, an anti-inflammatory that targets the site of inflammation to reduce the swelling and pain of a sore throat or painful mouth condition.

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No, Difflam is not an antibiotic. Difflam medicated products contain anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and/or anaesthetic ingredients that work directly on the mouth and throat to relieve sore throat symptoms. If your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection and you’ve been prescribed antibiotics, you can still use a Difflam throat lozenge or spray alongside them.

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Some Difflam products contain an antiseptic ingredient. Difflam Plus Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution contains the antiseptic chlorhexidine, and Difflam Sore Throat Iodine Gargle contains the antiseptic povidone-iodine. Difflam lozenges and Difflam Plus Sore Throat Spray contain antibacterial agents to kill bacteria that can cause mouth and throat infections.

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Difflam relieves sore throat pain, but it works differently to oral painkillers such as paracetamol tablets. Difflam lozenges, sprays and gargles act directly on the mouth and throat, using the anti-inflammatory benzydamine to reduce the swelling and inflammation that cause pain. Difflam Plus products also contain the anaesthetic lidocaine (lignocaine) to numb the pain.

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Many Difflam products are antibacterial. Difflam Anti-Inflammatory + Antibacterial Lozenges, Difflam Plus lozenges and spray, Difflam Plus Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution and Difflam Sore Throat Iodine Gargle all contain an antibacterial or antiseptic agent to kill bacteria that can cause mouth and throat infections.

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Difflam is an iNova Pharmaceuticals brand. In New Zealand, Difflam is represented by Radiant Health Ltd, an iNova Pharmaceuticals Group company, based in Auckland.

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Difflam medicated lozenges provide temporary relief from the symptoms of sore throat, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, swelling, redness and inflammatory conditions, and pain following mouth or throat surgery or dental procedures. They contain the anti-inflammatory benzydamine to reduce swelling and pain, plus an antibacterial agent to kill bacteria that can cause mouth and throat infections. Difflam Plus lozenges also contain the anaesthetic lidocaine (lignocaine) to numb the pain.

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Difflam throat sprays provide temporary relief from the symptoms of sore throat, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, swelling, redness and inflammatory conditions, pain following mouth or throat surgery and pain following dental procedures. The multi-directional nozzle lets you spray directly onto the sore, inflamed area for fast, targeted relief.

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Difflam Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution contains the anti-inflammatory benzydamine to reduce swelling and pain. Difflam Plus Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution combines benzydamine with an antiseptic to also help kill bacteria. Difflam Sore Throat Iodine Gargle contains povidone-iodine, which has antibacterial action to aid in the treatment of sore throats. Gargle or rinse, then spit the solution out – do not swallow.

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The main difference between Difflam Sprays, Lozenges and Gargles is how they are used. Difflam lozenges slowly dissolve in the mouth, releasing active ingredients directly to the throat while sprays deliver a fine mist directly onto the sore area for fast, targeted relief. Difflam gargles and mouth solutions are gargled or rinsed around the mouth and throat, then spat out. Each format has different ingredients and directions so always read the label cafefully before using.

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Difflam Mouth Gel provides temporary relief of painful, inflamed conditions of the mouth, including mouth ulcers, denture ulcers and sore gums. It contains the anti-inflammatory benzydamine and the antibacterial cetylpyridinium chloride. Apply about 1 cm of gel with a clean finger then gently massage into the sore area.

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Difflam Plus products are used for fast relief of painful, inflamed sore throats. Difflam Plus lozenges and Difflam Plus Sore Throat Spray have a triple action formula: an anaesthetic (lidocaine) to numb the pain, an antibacterial (dichlorobenzyl alcohol) to kill bacteria that can cause mouth and throat infections, and an anti-inflammatory (benzydamine) to reduce swelling and inflammation. Difflam Plus Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution combines benzydamine with the antiseptic chlorhexidine.

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Difflam Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution and Difflam Plus Sore Throat Gargle & Mouth Solution can be gargled or used as a mouth rinse for temporary relief of painful conditions of the mouth and throat, including sore throat, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, and pain following mouth or throat surgery and dental procedures. Hold in the mouth or gargle for at least 30 seconds, then spit out. Do not swallow.

What Is Difflam Good For?

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Yes, Difflam provides effective sore throat relief. Most Difflam medicated products contain the anti-inflammatory benzydamine, which targets inflammation – a known cause of sore throat pain – to reduce swelling and pain. The range includes lozenges, sprays and gargles, plus soothing drops for the first signs of a dry, tickly throat.

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Yes, Difflam lozenges, throat sprays and gargle & mouth solutions provide temporary relief from the symptoms of tonsillitis, such as pain, swelling and inflammation. If symptoms are severe or persist, see your doctor or pharmacist.

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Difflam can help relieve the pain and swelling of a sore throat, but it does not treat the underlying bacterial infection that causes strep throat. If you think you may have strep throat, see your doctor. If you are prescribed antibiotics, you can still use a Difflam throat lozenge or spray alongside them for symptom relief.

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Difflam products provide temporary relief from the symptoms of sore throat, pharyngitis and tonsillitis. Difflam is not specifically indicated for laryngitis. If you are experiencing laryngitis symptoms such as a hoarse or lost voice that persists, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for the most appropriate remedy.

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Yes, Difflam throat sprays provide temporary relief from the symptoms of mouth ulcers. Spray directly onto the sore area. Difflam Mouth Gel is also suitable for use on mouth ulcers, denture ulcers and sore gums.

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Difflam medicated lozenges and sprays are designed to relieve sore throat pain and inflammation, not to treat a cough. For soothing relief of a tickly chest, dry scratchy throat and stuffy nose, Difflam Herbals 3-in-1 Action Throat + Nose + Chest Lozenges are available. If your cough persists, see your doctor or pharmacist.

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Yes. Difflam Soothing Drops + Immune Support soothe dry, tickly throats with Manuka honey, plus Wellmune® for immune health support. Difflam Herbals 3-in-1 Lozenges soothe dry, scratchy throats, and Difflam Kids Soothing Throat Pops are available for children aged 3 years and over.

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Difflam products are not designed to break up phlegm or mucus. Difflam medicated products relieve sore throat pain and inflammation. Difflam Herbals 3-in-1 Lozenges can soothe a tickly chest and help clear a stuffy nose with menthol vapours. If you have a chesty cough with phlegm, talk to your pharmacist.

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Some Difflam products are formulated with an anaesthetic ingrenient to help numb throat or mouth pain. Difflam Plus lozenges and Difflam Plus Sore Throat Spray contain the anaesthetic lidocaine (lignocaine) to numb the pain – the spray numbs from 30 seconds. Because of the anaesthetic effect, you should avoid hot food or drinks directly after using Difflam Plus products.

How to Use Difflam

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Always read the label directions carefully before using any Difflam products. Slowly dissolve one Difflam lozenge in your mouth at a time – do not chew. Adults and children aged 6 years and over can take: Difflam Anti-Inflammatory + Antibacterial Lozenges – 1 lozenge as required (works for up to 3 hours), or every 1–2 hours in severe cases; Difflam Plus Anaesthetic Lozenges – 1 lozenge every 2–3 hours as required. Do not take more than 12 lozenges a day, and do not use continuously for more than 7 days unless under medical supervision.

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Always read the label directions carefully before using any Difflam products. Before first use, or after a period of non-use, prime the spray by pressing the pump until a mist is released. Point the nozzle at the sore, inflamed area at the back of your throat, spray, then swallow gently. Wipe the nozzle with a tissue after use. Difflam Plus Sore Throat Spray (adults and children over 12): 4 sprays every 3–4 hours as required, up to 7 doses (28 sprays) a day. For Difflam Sore Throat Spray and Spray Forte (age 6+), use every 1½–3 hours as required, with the number of sprays depending on age and product.

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Difflam lozenges can be taken whenever you need relief from sore throat pain, including at the first signs of a sore throat. Always read the label and carefully follow the directions for use.

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Difflam products can be used before or after food. If you are using a Difflam Plus product with anaesthetic, we recommend to avoid hot food or drinks directly afterwards. After applying Difflam Mouth Gel, do not eat or drink for 15 minutes. Always read the label directions carefully before using.

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Most Difflam sprays and lozenges contain the same anti-inflammatory ingredient (benzydamine), so check with your pharmacist before using them together. Difflam sprays can be useful at night-time to provide fast sore throat relief, avoiding the need to wait up until a lozenge dissolves. During the daytime, throat lozenges provide soothing relief while you’re on the go.

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Yes. After spraying Difflam Sore Throat Spray onto the sore area, swallow gently. Note that Difflam gargles and mouth solutions should not be swallowed – after gargling you should spit them out.

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Remove the cap from the spray. Before first use, or after a period of non-use, prime the spray by pressing the pump until a mist is released. After each use, wipe the nozzle with a tissue to prevent blockage.

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Yes, you can drink water after a Difflam lozenge. However, if you are using Difflam Plus Anaesthetic Lozenges, avoid hot food or drinks directly afterwards because of the numbing (anaesthetic) effect.

Difflam Ingredients

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Some Difflam products contain alcohol. You can find information about ingredients on the individual product pages, or by contacting our customer service team at: [email protected]

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Yes, Difflam medicated lozenges, throat sprays, Difflam Sore Throat Iodine Gargle, Difflam Soothing Drops and Difflam Herbals lozenges are labelled gluten free. You can find information about ingredients on the individual product pages, or by contacting our customer service team at: [email protected]

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Most Difflam medicated products are sugar free, including Difflam medicated lozenges, throat sprays and Difflam Sore Throat Iodine Gargle. Difflam Kids Soothing Throat Pops are 99% sugar free. Difflam Soothing Drops contain Manuka honey, and Difflam Herbals lozenges contain sugars. You can find information about ingredients on the individual product pages, or by contacting our customer service team at: [email protected]

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Difflam medicated lozenges, throat sprays and Difflam Soothing Drops are labelled lactose free. If you have a dairy allergy, check the full ingredient list on the pack or ask your pharmacist. You can find information about ingredients on the individual product pages, or by contacting our customer service team at: [email protected]

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Not all Difflam products are suitable for vegans. Difflam Soothing Drops + Immune Support and Difflam Kids Manuka Honey Throat Pops contain honey. For other products, check the full ingredient list on the pack or ask your pharmacist. You can find information about ingredients on the individual product pages, or by contacting our customer service team at: [email protected]

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Difflam products have not been halal certified. You can find information about ingredients on the individual product pages, or by contacting our customer service team at: [email protected]

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No, Difflam sprays do not contain penicillin or any antibiotic. Difflam Sore Throat Spray and Spray Forte contain the anti-inflammatory benzydamine. Difflam Plus Sore Throat Spray contains benzydamine, the anaesthetic lidocaine (lignocaine) and the antibacterial dichlorobenzyl alcohol.

Taking Difflam with Other Medications

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The anti-inflammatory benzydamine, found in most Difflam lozenges and sprays, has no known drug interactions. If you are taking other medicines or unsure, it is always best to talk with your pharmacist or doctor.

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Benzydamine, the anti-inflammatory in most Difflam lozenges and sprays, has no known drug interactions, so Difflam may be suitable to use with paracetamol. Always read the label and use only as directed on each product, and check with your pharmacist if unsure.

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Benzydamine, the anti-inflammatory in most Difflam lozenges and sprays, has no known drug interactions. Ibuprofen is also an anti-inflammatory, so you should check with your pharmacist before using Difflam products with ibuprofen. Do not use Difflam if you are allergic to benzydamine or other anti-inflammatory medicines.

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Yes. If your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, you can still use many of the Difflam products while you are taking the antibiotics your doctor prescribed. If you are unsure, always talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Benzydamine, the anti-inflammatory in most Difflam lozenges and sprays, has no known drug interactions. As many cold and flu medicines contain several ingredients, check with your pharmacist before using them together.

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If you are taking antidepressants or any other medicines, it is always best to check with your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam products.

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Difflam products are used to help treat or relieve sore throats. There should be no need to use another medicated throat or mouth products at the same time. You could be doubling up on similar ingredients, so if your symptoms persist, check with your pharmacist or doctor.

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Difflam products are used to help treat or relieve sore throats. If you are also experiencing cough symptoms, medicine such as Duro-Tuss may be helpful. It is always best to check with your pharmacist or doctor before using other medications with Difflam products to ensure the combination is right for you.

Difflam Side Effects

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No, Difflam does not make you drowsy. If you are experiencing drowsiness while using Difflam, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. For reporting of side effects with iNova Products email [email protected]

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Difflam products provide soothing relief for a sore throat or mouth. Do not use Difflam medicated products if you are allergic to benzydamine or other inflammatory medicines. If an allergic reaction occurs, stop taking and see your doctor immediately. If your sore throat or mouth symptoms persist, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Some Difflam products contain isomalt and/ or sucralose. Excess consumption of products containing isomalt or sucralose may have a laxative effect or cause diarrhoea. Always read the label and carefully follow the Difflam directions for use so you do not exceed the maximum daily dose.

Difflam Safety and Suitability

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Difflam medicated lozenges can be used to provide temporary relief from the symptoms of sore throat, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, mouth ulcers, swelling, redness and inflammatory conditions, and pain following mouth or throat surgery or dental procedures. Always read the label and use only as directed. Do not use Difflam if you are allergic to benzydamine or other anti-inflammatory medicines. If symptoms persist, see your doctor or pharmacist.

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Always read the label carefully to see a full list of product warnings and precautions. You can also find this information on the individual product pages. If you are allergic to benzydamine or other anti-inflammatory medicines, do not use Difflam products with this ingredient. If you are pregnant or likely to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam products.

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If you are pregnant or likely to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam products. Always read the label carefully before using Difflam, or check product suitability on the individual product pages.

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If you are pregnant or likely to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam products. Always read the label carefully before using Difflam, or check product suitability on the individual product pages.

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If you are pregnant or likely to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam products. Always read the label carefully before using Difflam, or check product suitability on the individual product pages.

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If you are breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before using Difflam products. Always read the label carefully before using Difflam, or check product suitability on the individual product pages.

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Difflam Kids Soothing Throat Pops are suitable from 3 years, under adult supervision. Always read the label carefully to see if Difflam is suitable for your child’s age group. Many Difflam products can be used from 6 years plus, but some are not suited for children under 12 years. If your child has a sore throat and you are uncretain, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

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If you have asthma, many Difflam products may be suitable to help sooth and relieve a sore throat, but if you are unsure which Difflam product is right for you, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

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People can be allergic to ingredients in Diflam products. Always read the label carefully or check individual product pages for a list of ingredients if you have alergies. If an allergic reaction occurs while using Difflam, stop using the product and see your doctor immediately.

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Always carefully follow the directions for use on the label and do not use more than the dose stated on the label. If you have used more than recommended or feel unwell, contact your doctor or pharmacist, or call the National Poisons Centre on 0800 764 766.

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Yes. Every Difflam product has an expiry date on the pack. You should store Difflam products according to the conditions described on the lebale, and do not use Difflam if it is past its expiry date.

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Difflam spray can be used until the expiry date on the pack, provided it is stored as directed (below 25°C for Difflam Sore Throat Spray and Spray Forte). Do not use if past the expiry date.

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Difflam lozenges should be taken according to the directions on the label. Each product may have different directions for use, so check these carefully to find out how many lozenges you can have in a day. Do not use Difflam medicated lozenges continuously for more than 7 days unless under medical supervision.

About the Difflam Brand

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Difflam products are made for iNova Pharmaceuticals at various manufacturing sites in Australia and throughout the world. In New Zealand, Difflam is represented by Radiant Health Ltd, an iNova Pharmaceuticals Group company.

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Yes, selected Difflam products are available at Woolworths and other supermarkets in New Zealand, as well as at pharmacies. Some Difflam products are only available from pharmacies, and the range may vary between stores.

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The Difflam range of throat lozenges and drops in New Zealand includes: Difflam Anti-Inflammatory + Antibacterial Dual Action Lozenges (Honey Lemon, Raspberry, Orange); Difflam Plus Anaesthetic + Antibacterial + Anti-Inflammatory Triple Action Lozenges (Honey Lemon, Wild Berry, Blackcurrant, Eucalyptus Menthol, Pineapple Lime); Difflam Herbals 3-in-1 Action Throat + Nose + Chest Lozenges; Difflam Soothing Drops + Immune Support (Honey&Lemon, Strawberry & Black Elderberry); and Difflam Kids Soothing Throat Pops (Strawberry and Manuka Honey flavours).

Where to Buy Difflam

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Difflam is available to buy from your local pharmacy or supermarket.

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No, you don’t need a prescription for Difflam and can buy it from your local pharmacy or supermarket.

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Difflam medicated products contain active ingredients that target the causes of sore throat pain. Being medicated, they are more expensive than regular throat lollies. Since prices are set by individual retailers it’s worth checking prices at your local pharmacy, supermarket or online.