Description

Bonjela is a brand of oral treatments intended to relieve the pain of mouth ulcers and denture sores. The brand covers a range of products. Bonjela Adult and Cool are oral gels containing keratolytic and mildly antiseptic salicylic acid in the form of its salt choline salicylate and the antiseptic cetalkonium chloride as active ingredients. Bonjela adult gel and Bonjela cool mint gel to relieve the pain of mouth ulcers.

What is Bonjela used for?

Bonjela adult gel and Bonjela cool mint gel can be used by adults aged 16 years and over to relieve pain and discomfort from:

• Mouth ulcers.
• Denture irritation.
• Sore spots from braces.
• Cold sores.

How does Bonjela work?

Bonjela adult gel and Bonjela cool mint gel both contain two active ingredients, choline salicylate and cetalkonium chloride.

Choline salicylate belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It’s similar to, but not the same as aspirin. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX).

COX is involved in making substances in the body known as prostaglandins, in response to injury and in certain conditions. The prostaglandins cause pain, swelling and inflammation. The choline salicylate reduces inflammation and pain by reducing the production of these prostaglandins in the area of the mouth it’s applied to.

Cetalkonium chloride is an antiseptic that kills a variety of bacteria and fungi that could infect sore or broken skin in the mouth. It helps prevent the irritated areas from getting infected and this can help them heal.

How do I use Bonjela?

• Adults aged 16 and over should gently massage approximately 1cm of Bonjela adult gel or Bonjela cool mint gel into the sore area of the mouth using a clean fingertip. Leave at least three hours between applications.
• For denture irritation, leave 30 minutes after applying the gel before putting the dentures back in. Don’t apply the gel directly to the dentures, as this can further irritate the gums.
• If your symptoms last for more than seven days, consult a doctor or dentist.
• Don’t exceed the recommended dose.

Who shouldn’t use Bonjela adult gel or cool mint gel?

• Children and adolescents under 16 years of age. Bonjela junior gel and Bonjela teething gel contain different ingredients and are suitable for younger children.
• People with an active stomach ulcer.
• People who are allergic to salicylates, eg aspirin.
• People who are allergic to any other ingredient of the gel. Check the ingredients in the leaflet that comes with the gel if you know you have specific allergies.

Can I use Bonjela while pregnant or breastfeeding?

• Bonjela is not known to be harmful when used by pregnant women, providing the recommended dose is not exceeded. However it’s best to avoid using it towards the end of the pregnancy because salicylates are known to increase the risk of bleeding. Get medical advice from your doctor or pharmacist before using any medicine during pregnancy.
• Salicylates may pass into breast milk in very small amounts, but are unlikely to have any adverse effects on a nursing infant. However, as with all medicines, always check with your doctor or pharmacist before using Bonjela if you’re breastfeeding.

What are the possible side effects of Bonjela?

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with Bonjela. Just because a side effect is stated here does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

• Allergic reactions such as asthma attacks in susceptible people.

For more information about any other possible risks associated with Bonjela, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your pharmacist. If you think you have experienced a side effect, did you know you can report this using the www.pilldoctor.com.gh

Can I use Bonjela with other medicines?

If used in large amounts Bonjela may possibly enhance the anti-blood-clotting effect of the anticoagulant medicine warfarin.

It’s not known to significantly affect other medicines, providing the recommended dose is not exceeded. However, if you’re to make sure that the already taking any medicines, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, it’s best to check with your pharmacist before using Bonjela as well.