Throat pain is one of the most common symptoms of colds and seasonal viral diseases. One popular way to alleviate it is through lozenges. However, it is important to understand that not all tablets are equally effective, and they should be chosen based on the cause of discomfort, explains the clinical pharmacist.
Expert: Ilze Priede, pharmacist
Different Causes of Throat Pain
Pain can be caused by viruses (such as adenoviruses, rhinoviruses), bacteria (streptococci), vocal cord strain, or acid reflux. Accordingly, treatment is tailored individually.
Lozenges help to:
- relieve pain,
- moisturize the mucosa,
- reduce inflammation,
- in some formulations — have antibacterial properties.
Important: Antibiotics do not help with viral infections and are used only as prescribed by a doctor for bacterial diseases.
Types of Throat Tablets
1. Medicinal Tablets
May contain:
- antiseptics: cetylpyridinium, dequalinium, amylmetacresol, 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents: flurbiprofen, benzydamine;
- anesthetics, such as lidocaine, to reduce pain.
They are used for inflammation of the oral cavity and throat, hoarseness, tickling, and pain.
2. Herbal Tablets and Pastilles
Contain extracts of herbs: Icelandic moss, sea buckthorn, marshmallow, celandine, sage, eucalyptus, licorice, chamomile, thyme, fir needles, propolis.
- Icelandic moss moisturizes the mucosa and alleviates irritation.
- Propolis has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
- Other herbs help to reduce tickling and dry cough.
3. Tablets with Hyaluronic Acid
Help to moisturize the throat mucosa and accelerate tissue recovery.
What to Pay Attention to When Choosing
- Composition: study the ingredients and possible allergens, sugar, honey, or sweeteners.
- Instructions for Use: adhere to the dosage to avoid irritating the mucosa or stomach.
- Age Restrictions: for children, choose age-appropriate tablets and store them out of reach.
Check for Reflux
Sometimes throat pain may be related to acid reflux. In such cases, the treatment differs: diet and lifestyle are adjusted, medications are prescribed to protect the mucosa and reduce acidity. The optimal treatment method should be recommended by a doctor.
