Amylmetacresol

Antiseptic
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Amylmetacresol is a antiseptic found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Strepsils. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Used in throat lozenges to soothe a sore throat.

How it works

A mild antiseptic used with dichlorobenzyl alcohol in sore-throat lozenges. It may kill some throat germs and soothe the throat.

How to take it

Dissolve 1 lozenge slowly in the mouth every 2 to 3 hours, up to 8 a day. Not for children under 6.

Common side effects

Sore tongue or mouth irritation

Get medical help straight away if

Sore throat lasts more than 3 days or comes with high fever or difficulty swallowing

Be careful

Not for children under 6.

Other medicines and interactions

No important medicine interactions.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Amylmetacresol (1)

Strepsils

Common questions

What is Amylmetacresol used for?

Used in throat lozenges to soothe a sore throat.

How does Amylmetacresol work?

A mild antiseptic used with dichlorobenzyl alcohol in sore-throat lozenges. It may kill some throat germs and soothe the throat.

How should I take Amylmetacresol?

Dissolve 1 lozenge slowly in the mouth every 2 to 3 hours, up to 8 a day. Not for children under 6.

What are the side effects of Amylmetacresol?

Common: Sore tongue or mouth irritation. Get help straight away for: Sore throat lasts more than 3 days or comes with high fever or difficulty swallowing.

Does Amylmetacresol interact with other medicines?

No important medicine interactions.

Is Amylmetacresol safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Amylmetacresol need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Amylmetacresol?

Strepsils.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.