Anesthetic lozenges manage discomfort in the mouth and throat. These dissolvable medications provide temporary relief by delivering numbing agents directly to the affected area. They are a convenient over-the-counter option for localized pain or irritation.
How Anesthetic Lozenges Work
Anesthetic lozenges contain active ingredients such as benzocaine, dyclonine, lidocaine, or phenol, which function as local anesthetics. When a lozenge dissolves slowly in the mouth, these compounds are released and absorbed by the sensory nerves in the oral cavity and pharynx. This process blocks pain signals along these nerves to the brain, resulting in a localized numbing sensation and reduced pain perception. This effect is temporary, diminishing as the active ingredient is metabolized or diluted by saliva.
Common Conditions They Address
Anesthetic lozenges alleviate minor oral and throat discomforts. They relieve sore throats, whether caused by the common cold, flu, or general irritation. They also soothe pain from minor mouth irritations, such as canker sores or mouth ulcers. They may also offer temporary comfort for pain from minor dental procedures or injuries. The numbing action can make swallowing and speaking less painful.
Important Usage Guidelines
Generally, one lozenge dissolves slowly in the mouth every two to four hours, with a typical maximum of eight to twelve lozenges within a 24-hour period. Always follow specific product instructions. Do not chew or swallow the lozenge whole; slow dissolution ensures prolonged contact with the painful area and proper medication release. Avoid eating or drinking immediately after use, as temporary numbness can affect swallowing reflexes and potentially increase the risk of choking.
Anesthetic lozenges are typically not recommended for children under specific ages, often two or five years, due to choking hazards and potential serious side effects, particularly with benzocaine. A rare but serious side effect, methemoglobinemia, can occur, especially with benzocaine, leading to reduced oxygen in the blood. Symptoms include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, or a fast heart rate, and require immediate medical attention. Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat) also warrant prompt medical help.
If a sore throat is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, seek medical advice. If mouth symptoms do not improve within seven days or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Anesthetic Versus Other Throat Lozenges
Throat lozenges come in various formulations, each with a distinct function. Anesthetic lozenges contain local anesthetics that numb pain by blocking nerve signals. Other types include antiseptic lozenges, with ingredients like hexylresorcinol or cetylpyridinium chloride, aimed at inhibiting microorganism growth in the throat. Their main action is germ reduction.
Soothing or demulcent lozenges often contain ingredients such as menthol, honey, or pectin. These work by creating a cooling sensation or forming a protective coating over irritated tissues, providing comfort without numbing or germ-killing actions. While many lozenges provide relief for throat discomfort, only anesthetic types directly numb the sensation of pain. Always check product labels to understand the active ingredients and intended purpose.