Indicated for: sore throat; oropharyngeal inflammation
Route of administration: buccopharyngeal
Substance: hexetidine (anti-inflammatory agent)
ATC: A01AB12 (Alimentary tract and metabolism | Stomatological preparations | Antiinfectives and antiseptics for local oral treatment)
Hexetidine is a local antiseptic used in the mouth and throat, in products such as gargles or mouthwashes. It has local antibacterial and antifungal activity, but it does not treat severe or systemic infections.
It is usually used by rinsing the mouth or gargling with the recommended solution, then spitting it out; it should not be swallowed. In children, it should be used only if they can spit the solution out reliably. Avoid eating or drinking immediately after use if the leaflet recommends this, so the medicine can remain in contact with the mucosa.
Side effects may include local irritation, burning sensation, temporary numbness, altered taste, dry mouth or temporary staining of the tongue and teeth. Some products may contain alcohol or excipients that are not suitable for everyone. Stop using it and seek medical advice if rash, swelling of the face, breathing difficulty or worsening lesions occur.
Ask a doctor or dentist if throat pain is severe, high fever is present, swallowing is difficult, pus, significant bleeding, non-healing ulcers or symptoms lasting more than a few days occur. Hexetidine can be useful for local mouth and throat care, but it does not replace treatment of the cause when a specific antibiotic, antifungal medicine or dental evaluation is needed.