What is Anbesol Liquid?
Anbesol Liquid is a pharmacy medicine used for fast, targeted relief of mouth and gum pain. It is used for:
- Recurrent mouth ulcers
- Denture irritation and sore spots
- Teething pain in babies and children when non-medicated methods have not helped
It contains:
- Lidocaine hydrochloride which numbs the sore area to reduce pain
- Chlorocresol and cetylpyridinium chloride which are antiseptics that help reduce germs on the sore area
Legal status in the UK: Pharmacy medicine (P)
Who is it suitable for?
Suitable for:
- Adults and the elderly for mouth ulcers and denture irritation
- Babies and children aged 5 months and over for teething pain, when non-medicated methods have not provided enough relief
Not suitable for:
- Babies under 5 months
Who should not use it and important warnings
Do not use:
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients
- More often than directed
- With other mouth products that contain lidocaine as this increases the risk of using too much local anaesthetic
Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have heart or liver problems
- You are taking other medicines and are unsure if they may interact
If swallowed in large amounts, or if a child may have swallowed it, seek medical advice.
How to use
How to apply
- Wash your hands.
- Place a clean fingertip over the bottle opening.
- Invert the bottle once and return it upright so your fingertip is lightly wetted.
- Dab directly onto the sore area, undiluted.
Adults and the elderly
- Apply one fingertip dose to the sore gum
- Leave at least 3 hours between applications
- Use up to 6 times in 24 hours
- Do not use for more than 7 days for the same teething episode
Babies and children aged 5 months and over for teething
If you miss a dose
Apply when needed and continue as directed, keeping at least 3 hours between applications.
If too much is used
Stop use and seek medical advice, especially if the child seems unwell or unusually sleepy.
Side effects
Mild effects can include:
- Temporary numbness or tingling
- Brief stinging or burning where applied
- Mild mouth irritation
Stop using and seek urgent medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- Rash, hives, or itching
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
When to seek medical advice
Speak to a pharmacist, dentist, or doctor if:
- Pain lasts more than 7 days, keeps coming back, or worsens
- Mouth ulcers are very large, multiple, or you also have a fever
- You think too much has been used or a child seems unwell
Order Journey
Place Your Order
Add the product to your basket and complete your purchase in just a few clicks.
Approved by Pharmacy Team
As a general sale product, no prescription is required. You can purchase directly.
Discreet Delivery
Your item is shipped quickly in plain, unbranded packaging for your privacy.
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: 07 July 2026
Last updated: 07 July 2026