Best Over-The-Counter Medicine For Sore Throat
Dealing with a sore throat is a common experience that most people have to go through at some point in their lives. It is usually a symptom of an underlying condition such as a cold, flu, or strep throat. The good news is that there are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications available that can help relieve the discomfort and pain associated with a sore throat. In this article, we will explore the best OTC medicine for sore throat and what you need to know before using them.
Throat Lozenges
Throat lozenges are one of the most popular OTC medicines for sore throat. They contain ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus oil, and honey that can help soothe the throat and provide temporary relief. Lozenges also stimulate saliva production, which can help keep your throat moist and ease the pain. Some of the best throat lozenges available in the market include:
- Ricola Natural Herb Cough Drops
- Chloraseptic Sore Throat Lozenges
- Halls Cherry Cough Drops
It is important to note that throat lozenges are not suitable for children under the age of 3 as they may pose a choking hazard.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are a group of drugs that can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They are commonly used to treat headaches, fever, and pain caused by inflammation. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin are also effective in providing relief for sore throat. These drugs work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing inflammation and pain. Some of the best NSAIDs for sore throat include:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Aspirin (Bayer, St. Joseph)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
NSAIDs should not be used by individuals who are allergic to them or have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding. It is also important to note that aspirin should not be used by children under the age of 12 due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
Antibacterial Throat Sprays
Antibacterial throat sprays are another OTC medicine for sore throat that can help relieve pain and discomfort. These sprays contain ingredients such as phenol, benzocaine, and menthol that can help numb the throat and provide temporary relief. They also contain antibacterial agents that can help fight off infections. Some of the best antibacterial throat sprays include:
- Chloraseptic Sore Throat Spray
- Halls Oral Anesthetic Spray
- Cepacol Sore Throat Spray
It is important to note that throat sprays should not be used by children under the age of 3 and should be used with caution by individuals who have a history of allergies or asthma.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a type of drug that can help relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itching. They can also help relieve sore throat caused by allergies. Antihistamines work by blocking the production of histamines, which are responsible for causing allergy symptoms. Some of the best antihistamines for sore throat include:
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
- Claritin (Loratadine)
- Allegra (Fexofenadine)
Antihistamines should not be used by individuals who are allergic to them or have a history of liver disease or glaucoma. They may also cause drowsiness, so it is important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking them.
Conclusion
Sore throat can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but with the right OTC medicine, you can relieve the symptoms and get back to your daily routine. Throat lozenges, NSAIDs, antibacterial throat sprays, and antihistamines are some of the best OTC medicines available for sore throat. However, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.