Strepsils is a leading global brand of medicated throat lozenges owned and manufactured by the British multinational consumer goods company Reckitt (formerly Reckitt Benckiser). It is recognized as the world’s most sold sore throat medicine and the number one medicated sore throat remedy.

Brand History and Ownership

Origins:
The Strepsils brand was originally introduced in 1950 as a mouthwash before being launched as lozenges in 1958.

Acquisition:
Reckitt Benckiser acquired the brand in 2006 as part of its purchase of Boots Healthcare International.

Global Presence:
The brand has a worldwide market presence, with manufacturing and distribution entities such as Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK) Ltd, Reckitt Benckiser Ireland Limited, and Reckitt Benckiser (India) Pvt.

Product Composition and Mechanism

Strepsils lozenges are formulated to provide symptomatic relief for mouth and throat infections, as well as dry, irritating coughs.

Active Ingredients:
Most standard formulations contain two primary antiseptic agents: 2,4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol (1.2mg) and Amylmetacresol (0.6mg).

Triple Action Formula:
Certain variants, such as Strepsils Extra, use a triple action formula that fights germs, relieves pain, and soothes the throat, sometimes incorporating Hexylresorcinol as a numbing agent.

Efficacy:
Clinical studies indicate that Strepsils lozenges can reduce throat soreness and ease swallowing difficulty within 5 minutes, with effects lasting for up to 2 hours.

Specialized Formulations:
Some products include additional ingredients like Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), menthol for local anesthetic action and nasal decongestion, or Ambroxol for cough relief.

Key Product Variants

Strepsils offers a wide range of products tailored to different types of throat discomfort:

Original:
The classic antiseptic formula for general throat infections.

Honey & Lemon:
A popular flavor that includes a demulcent action for soothing.

Orange with Vitamin C:
Contains 100mg of Vitamin C along with antiseptics.

Sore Throat & Blocked Nose:
Includes menthol to help clear nasal congestion while treating the throat.

+Plus/Anaesthetic:
Specifically indicated for severe sore throat pain, often containing numbing agents.

Strawberry Sugar-Free:
Designed for those who prefer or require sugar-free options.

Safety and Usage

Dosage:
For adults and children over 6 years old, the standard recommendation is one lozenge dissolved slowly every 2–3 hours, with a maximum of 12 lozenges in 24 hours.

Age Restriction:
Most standard Strepsils lozenges are not suitable for children under 6 years of age.

Dietary and Ethical Info:
Strepsils folding boxes are 100% recyclable. While the product contains dichlorobenzyl alcohol, it is not considered an intoxicant, which is an important consideration for many Muslim consumers.