Flurbiprofen Lozenges (Strefen): Sore Throat Relief Guide

Flurbiprofen lozenges, commonly branded as

Strefen

, are a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) designed for the short-term relief of

sore throat

symptoms, including pain, soreness, swelling, and difficulty swallowing. These lozenges work locally in the throat by reducing inflammation and providing a soothing effect, often starting within 2 minutes of use. Available over-the-counter at pharmacies, they contain 8.75 mg of flurbiprofen per lozenge and are suitable for adults and children over 12 years old.

Type of medicine	Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Used for	Relief of sore throat
Also called	Strefen®
Available as	Lozenges (Honey & Lemon or other flavors)

A sore throat typically resolves within a few days with self-care, but

flurbiprofen lozenges

help manage discomfort in the meantime. They are clinically proven to ease symptoms like pain, coughing, loss of appetite, and feverishness, with significant improvements noted as early as 2 hours after the first dose. However, they are intended for short-term use only, not exceeding 3 days without medical advice.

About flurbiprofen lozenges

Flurbiprofen is an NSAID that inhibits the production of prostaglandins, chemicals responsible for pain and inflammation in the throat. When dissolved slowly in the mouth, the lozenge coats the affected area, providing both local anti-inflammatory action and measurable soothing within 2 minutes, lasting up to 4 hours. Studies show it resolves key sore throat symptoms effectively: for example, 50% reduction in coughing, 84% in loss of appetite, and 68% in feverishness compared to baseline.

Common flavors include

Honey and Lemon

, which also help soothe irritation. The lozenge dissolves over 5-12 minutes, allowing flurbiprofen to be absorbed rapidly, detectable in the blood within 5 minutes. This makes it ideal for acute sore throat relief without systemic overuse of NSAIDs.

Sore throats are often caused by viral infections, but

Strefen

addresses symptoms regardless of cause, without treating the underlying infection. Always combine with rest, hydration, and other simple remedies like gargling salt water for best results.

How to take flurbiprofen lozenges

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely for safe and effective use.

• Suck or dissolve

  one lozenge

  slowly in the mouth every 3-6 hours as needed.
• **Move the lozenge around** the mouth while sucking to avoid local irritation.
• Do not exceed

  5 lozenges in 24 hours

  .
• Use the

  lowest effective dose

  for the

  shortest duration

  necessary, ideally no more than 3 days.
• If symptoms persist, worsen, or new symptoms appear after 3 days, consult a doctor immediately.

For oromucosal (in the mouth) administration only; do not chew or swallow whole. Elderly patients require no dose adjustment, but caution is advised due to higher risk of side effects.

Dosage information

Group	Dosage	Maximum Daily	Duration
Adults & Children over 12	1 lozenge every 3-6 hours	5 lozenges	Max 3 days
Children under 12	Not recommended	N/A	N/A
Elderly	Same as adults	5 lozenges	Max 3 days; monitor closely
Renal Impairment (mild-moderate)	Same as adults	5 lozenges	Avoid if severe

In mild to moderate renal impairment, no dose reduction is needed, but it is contraindicated in severe cases.

Who can take flurbiprofen lozenges

Suitable for adults and children over 12 years with sore throat symptoms. Not for children under 12.

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use if you have:

• History of stomach or duodenal ulcers, or inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis).
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding (avoid if possible, especially last trimester).
• Liver, kidney, or heart problems.
• High blood pressure or blood clotting issues.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• Allergy to NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, or other ingredients.
• Taking other medications, including over-the-counter or herbal remedies.

Who should not take flurbiprofen lozenges

**Contraindicated** in cases of:

• Hypersensitivity to flurbiprofen or excipients.
• History of asthma, rhinitis, angioedema, or urticaria from NSAIDs/aspirin.
• Active or recurrent peptic ulcers/bleeding (2+ episodes).
• History of GI bleeding/perforation from prior NSAID use.
• Severe heart, renal, or hepatic failure.
• Last trimester of pregnancy.

Caution with other medicines

Flurbiprofen may interact with:

• Other NSAIDs, anticoagulants, antihypertensives, diuretics, methotrexate, or corticosteroids—increases risk of bleeding, kidney issues, or GI problems.
• Medicines impairing fertility (reversible effect).[10]
• Always inform your doctor/pharmacist of all medications.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid during pregnancy, especially the last trimester, due to risks to the fetus. No teratogenic effects in animal studies, but human data is limited—use only if benefits outweigh risks. Not recommended while breastfeeding without medical advice.

Side effects

Most common are gastrointestinal; use lowest dose/shortest time to minimize risks. Frequencies:

• Uncommon: Hypersensitivity (urticaria, pruritis), abdominal pain, nausea, dyspepsia, headache, skin rashes.
• Rare: Diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, vomiting.
• Very rare: Severe hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis, angioedema), GI ulcer/bleed/perforation, aseptic meningitis, renal failure, liver disorders, blood disorders, severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome).

Stop use and seek medical help for severe symptoms like swelling, breathing difficulty, severe GI pain, or unexplained bleeding. Elderly are at higher risk for GI complications.

How to store flurbiprofen lozenges

Store below 25°C in original packaging, away from moisture and children. Do not use after expiry date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How quickly does Strefen work?

A: Soothing effect starts in 2 minutes; significant symptom relief by 2 hours, lasting up to 4 hours.

Q: Can children under 12 use it?

A: No, not indicated for children under 12 years.

Q: What if symptoms don’t improve in 3 days?

A: Consult a doctor immediately.

Q: Is it safe for pregnant women?

A: Avoid, especially in last trimester; consult doctor.

Q: Can I take it with other painkillers?

A: Avoid combining with other NSAIDs; check with pharmacist.