A lozenge is a small, solid form designed to dissolve slowly in the mouth, releasing medication or soothing agents directly into the throat. This slow action provides localized, temporary relief for minor throat irritation, dryness, or an accompanying cough. Lozenges are a popular over-the-counter option for managing the discomfort of a sore throat, often a symptom of the common cold or other upper respiratory infections. Their effectiveness depends on understanding their specific function and the compounds they use.
How Lozenges Deliver Relief
The primary physical mechanism by which lozenges work is known as the demulcent effect. As the lozenge dissolves on the tongue, it stimulates the salivary glands to increase the production of saliva. This increase in moisture helps to combat the dryness that often accompanies throat inflammation and irritation.
The saliva mixes with the dissolving material, creating a viscous, soothing film that coats the irritated lining of the pharynx. Ingredients like pectin or glycerin thicken this film, acting as a physical barrier. This protective coating temporarily shields the raw, inflamed tissue from irritants, reducing pain and mitigating the urge to cough. Localized delivery ensures the active ingredients target the source of discomfort directly.
Active Ingredients and Their Purpose
Lozenges contain various active ingredients, each targeting a different aspect of sore throat discomfort. Local anesthetics, such as benzocaine, phenol, and hexylresorcinol, temporarily numb the throat tissue. These compounds block sodium channels in nerve endings, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain and providing immediate, though short-lived, relief.
Another group of compounds provides a cooling or counter-irritant effect, with menthol being the most widely used example. Menthol activates temperature-sensitive receptors, creating a sensation of coolness that distracts from the underlying pain. Eucalyptus oil can also contribute to this sensation, helping to soothe the throat.
Some lozenges also include an antitussive, like dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant. While delivered locally, dextromethorphan acts centrally by affecting the cough center in the brain to raise the threshold for a cough reflex. This systemic action helps to quiet a persistent, dry cough that can further aggravate a sore throat.
Setting Expectations and Proper Use
Lozenges are designed strictly for symptomatic relief and do not treat the underlying cause, which is typically a viral infection. They are appropriate for minor irritation and pain but are not a cure for an infection. The relief provided by the demulcent effect and active ingredients is temporary, lasting only as long as the coating remains on the throat.
To maximize effectiveness, the lozenge must dissolve slowly in the mouth without being chewed or swallowed whole. Chewing rapidly diminishes contact time, negating the localized relief. Users must adhere to the dosing instructions, which typically limit consumption to one lozenge every few hours.
Exceeding the recommended dosage, particularly with lozenges containing local anesthetics, can lead to adverse effects or excessive numbness. Consult a healthcare professional if a sore throat is severe, accompanied by a high fever, or if symptoms persist without improvement for more than five to seven days. These prolonged symptoms may indicate a more serious condition, such as a bacterial infection like strep throat, which requires specific medical treatment.