A throat lozenge, often referred to as a throat pastille or cough drop, is a small, solid medication designed to be dissolved slowly in the mouth. These preparations are formulated to provide temporary relief from minor throat discomfort, such as scratchiness, dryness, or irritation. Lozenges are not intended to cure underlying conditions but rather to offer symptomatic relief.
How Lozenges Work
Throat lozenges function by stimulating saliva production. As a lozenge dissolves, it encourages salivary glands to produce more saliva, which coats and moistens the irritated throat. This increased moisture reduces dryness and scratchiness, providing a soothing effect and reducing friction.
Some lozenges contain ingredients that provide a local anesthetic action. These substances temporarily numb nerve endings in the throat, easing pain and making swallowing less painful. This eases overall throat discomfort.
Certain lozenge ingredients act as demulcents. Demulcents form a protective, soothing film over the irritated lining of the throat. This film shields sensitive tissues from further irritation, such as from coughing or environmental irritants. By creating a physical barrier, demulcents contribute to sustained comfort and help reduce the urge to cough.
Additionally, some lozenges incorporate ingredients that create a cooling sensation. This effect provides relief from throat discomfort and contributes to a feeling of easier breathing, particularly with minor congestion. These mechanisms alleviate symptoms like sore throat pain, scratchiness, dryness, and minor coughs.
Common Active Ingredients
Throat lozenges utilize various active ingredients for their soothing and pain-relieving effects. Demulcents, such as pectin, glycerin, honey, and various syrups, coat and protect the throat by forming a soothing layer over irritated tissues, reducing friction and discomfort.
Local anesthetics are incorporated to numb the throat and reduce pain perception. Examples include benzocaine, dyclonine hydrochloride, hexylresorcinol, and phenol. These agents temporarily block nerve signals, providing localized numbing that eases swallowing and reduces pain. The pain relief is short-lived, lasting while the active ingredient is in contact with the throat.
Some lozenges contain antiseptic agents, such as cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), amylmetacresol, and dichlorobenzyl alcohol. While these ingredients can kill germs, their primary role in lozenges is symptom relief rather than direct infection treatment.
Counterirritants or cooling agents, notably menthol and eucalyptus oil, are also frequently found. Menthol, from peppermint oil, produces a cooling sensation by activating cold receptors, providing a soothing effect and aiding nasal passage clarity. Eucalyptus oil similarly provides a cooling sensation and is used for its aromatic properties that aids clearer breathing.
When to Use and Important Considerations
Throat lozenges are intended for temporary relief of minor throat irritation, soreness, and coughs. These symptoms often arise from common ailments like colds, seasonal allergies, or voice strain. They also comfort dry or scratchy throats from environmental factors.
Always follow package directions regarding dosage and frequency to avoid potential side effects or overuse. Many lozenges have age restrictions, particularly for young children, due to choking risk and effects of active ingredients.
Potential side effects include temporary numbness in the mouth or throat, and allergic reactions. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, severe pain develops, a fever persists, or difficulty swallowing occurs. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms do not improve or last longer than a few days. Medicinal throat lozenges are distinct from regular hard candies because they contain specific active ingredients for therapeutic effects beyond simple lubrication.