What is Anbesol Adult Strength Gel?
Anbesol Adult Strength Gel is a medicated mouth gel used to provide quick, short-term relief from pain caused by:
- Mouth ulcers
- Denture irritation
- Minor mouth and gum soreness
It works in two ways:
- Lidocaine hydrochloride gently numbs the sore area to reduce pain
- Chlorocresol and cetylpyridinium chloride help reduce bacteria and keep the area clean while it heals
It is for use inside the mouth only.
Who is it suitable for?
Suitable for:
- Adults
- Elderly patients
- Children aged 12 years and over
Not suitable for:
- Children under 12 years
- Teething pain
If symptoms do not improve, speak to your pharmacist, dentist or doctor.
Who should not use it / Warnings
Do not use:
- If you are allergic to lidocaine, chlorocresol, cetylpyridinium chloride or any other ingredient
- More often than recommended
Speak to a healthcare professional before use if:
- You have open wounds or damaged areas inside your mouth
- Symptoms last longer than 7 days or keep coming back
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Small amounts of lidocaine can pass into breast milk, but when used as directed this is not expected to harm your baby.
This gel contains chlorocresol, which may cause allergic reactions in some people. It also contains a small amount of alcohol.
Using too much may increase the risk of serious side effects, including convulsions. Seek medical help immediately if too much is used or swallowed.
How to use
- Use inside the mouth only.
- Wash your hands.
- Apply a small amount of gel onto a clean fingertip.
- Gently dab directly onto the sore area.
You may repeat if needed, but not more often than every 3 hours.
If dentures are causing soreness
- Apply the gel to the gums, not onto the denture
- Wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting dentures
Do not exceed the recommended frequency.
Side effects
Like all medicines, this product can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Possible side effects include:
- Allergic reactions such as rash, itching or difficulty breathing
- Mouth ulcers
- Dermatitis causing red, itchy or scaly skin
- Mild burning, stinging or temporary numbness at the application site
Stop using and seek urgent medical help if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling, wheezing or breathing difficulty.
When to seek medical advice
Seek medical advice if:
- Symptoms last more than 7 days
- Ulcers keep coming back
- You think too much has been used
- You experience unusual or severe side effects
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Our Clinical Authors
This page has been written by a registered UK pharmacist and reviewed by our clinical team to ensure it is accurate, clear and reflects current clinical guidance.
Last medically reviewed: 15 June 2026
Last updated: 15 June 2026