Painkiller rinse that soothes a sore throat

Difflam Sore Throat Rinse, £7.99

CLAIM: ‘Fast-acting, long-lasting relief from throat soreness, denture discomfort and mouth ulcers,’ say the manufacturers. This is sugar-free but contains alcohol. It is not suitable for children under 12.

VERDICT: This contains the active ingredient benzydamine hydrochloride, which belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is known to be very effective in easing inflammation and relieving pain. In mouthwash form it’s absorbed by the mouth and throat tissue, and so is useful to ease throat pain. It can be used every one-and-a-half to three hours for up to seven days. As with all pain medication, it should not be used for longer, unless on the advice of a doctor or dentist. It’s also not without side-effects, with the most common being numbness and a stinging feeling in the mouth. This can usually be reduced by diluting it with a little water. 5/5