CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.
Aphthous ulcer - Management
Topical analgesia
- Topical analgesics may provide relief from very painful ulcers, but their duration of action is short-lived.
- Benzydamine hydrochloride is available as a mouthwash or spray.
- The mouthwash can cause stinging. This can be reduced by diluting the mouthwash in an equal volume of water before use.
- The spray is useful for difficult to use areas, and is licensed for use in children.
© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement