Dichlorobenzyl alcohol

Antiseptic
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 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 that is combined with amylmetacresol in sore-throat lozenges.

How to take it

Dissolve 1 lozenge slowly in the mouth every 2 to 3 hours, up to 8 a day.

Common side effects

  • Mouth irritation
  • Rarely allergy

Get medical help straight away if

Sore throat lasts more than 3 days, or high fever, rash or difficulty breathing

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 Dichlorobenzyl alcohol (1)

Strepsils

Common questions

What is Dichlorobenzyl alcohol used for?

Used in throat lozenges to soothe a sore throat.

How does Dichlorobenzyl alcohol work?

A mild antiseptic that is combined with amylmetacresol in sore-throat lozenges.

How should I take Dichlorobenzyl alcohol?

Dissolve 1 lozenge slowly in the mouth every 2 to 3 hours, up to 8 a day.

What are the side effects of Dichlorobenzyl alcohol?

Common: Mouth irritation, rarely allergy. Get help straight away for: Sore throat lasts more than 3 days, or high fever, rash or difficulty breathing.

Does Dichlorobenzyl alcohol interact with other medicines?

No important medicine interactions.

Is Dichlorobenzyl alcohol safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Generally considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Dichlorobenzyl alcohol 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 Dichlorobenzyl alcohol?

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.