Bonjela Gel

Bonjela Gel is a topical oral gel supplied in a 15g tube, formulated for application in and around the mouth. Based on the internationally established Bonjela formulation (confirmed via the UK regulator’s Summary of Product Characteristics), its active ingredients are choline salicylate and cetalkonium chloride; choline salicylate is a salicylate derivative and cetalkonium chloride is an antiseptic agent. The exact concentration on the Malaysian-registered pack should be confirmed against the product packaging, as regional formulations can differ slightly.

Bonjela Gel is classified as an OTC (Over-the-Counter) topical oral product in Malaysia and is sold through major pharmacy chains and online platforms without a prescription. Because its active ingredient is a salicylate, its use carries specific age-related precautions that differ from a plain antiseptic or anaesthetic oral gel; international regulatory guidance (see Contraindications and Relevant Information) restricts the use of choline salicylate-containing oral gels in children and young people under 16 years of age, and this restriction should be reflected in how the product is used, pending pharmacist confirmation of the current Malaysian pack labelling.

Bonjela Gel is supplied in a 15g tube for topical application to the affected area inside or around the mouth using a clean fingertip or cotton swab. As with all topical oral products, the tube should not be shared between users, and hands or applicators should be clean before each use to reduce the risk of introducing infection to the mouth.

• Wash hands before application, or use a clean cotton swab.
• Apply a small, pea-sized amount of gel directly to the affected area inside or around the mouth.
• Gently massage or dab the gel onto the area; avoid swallowing excess gel where possible.
• Wash hands after application, and avoid eating or drinking immediately afterward so the gel can remain in contact with the area.

A small amount of gel, approximately the size of a pea, is generally applied to the affected area up to three to four times daily, or as directed on the pack insert, with at least a few hours between applications. Given the salicylate content and the age-related restriction noted in Contraindications, this product should not be used in children and young people under 16 years of age without confirming suitability with a pharmacist or doctor, and the exact age guidance stated on the Malaysian pack should always be checked. Do not exceed the maximum daily frequency stated on the packaging. If symptoms do not improve within a few days, or worsen, stop use and consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Use before the expiry date printed on the tube or carton packaging.

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep out of reach of children.

Cetalkonium Chloride

Choline Salicylate

• Known hypersensitivity to choline salicylate, cetalkonium chloride, aspirin, or other salicylates.
• Should not be used in children and young people under 16 years of age, based on international regulatory restrictions on choline salicylate-containing oral gels due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome; this age restriction should be confirmed against the current Malaysian product labelling before use in children.
• Should not be used for teething pain in infants or young children, consistent with the same salicylate-related safety restriction.
• Not for use on broken or severely inflamed skin/mucosa beyond the intended mouth ulcer or gum application site without medical advice.

• Concurrent use with other salicylate-containing products (such as oral or topical aspirin preparations) should be avoided due to cumulative salicylate exposure.
• Individuals taking anticoagulant medicines should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use, as salicylates may affect bleeding risk with prolonged or extensive use.
• No significant food interactions are known; avoid eating or drinking immediately after application so the gel is not washed away before it can take effect.

• Use only a small, pea-sized amount per application.
• Always check the age restriction stated on the packaging before giving to a child.
• Do not share the tube between different users.
• Wash hands or use a clean swab before each application.
• Keep the tube tightly closed and away from direct sunlight.
• Stop use and see a doctor if symptoms persist beyond a few days.

Cetalkonium Chloride

Choline Salicylate

Precautions: Because Bonjela Gel contains a salicylate, it should not be used in children and young people under 16 years of age for any oral application, including teething pain, mouth ulcers, or gum discomfort, consistent with international regulatory safety restrictions on choline salicylate oral gels; caregivers should confirm the current age guidance stated on the Malaysian product packaging with a pharmacist before use in anyone under adulthood. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with a known salicylate or aspirin sensitivity, should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Stop use and see a doctor or pharmacist if there is no improvement after a few days, if symptoms worsen, if signs of an allergic reaction appear, or if the product has been used in a child and any unusual drowsiness, persistent vomiting, or confusion develops.