Best Off The Shelf Medicine For Sore Throat
Sore throat can be a painful and annoying condition that can cause difficulty in swallowing and speaking. It is often accompanied by other symptoms like cough, fever, and body aches. While a sore throat can be caused by various factors, such as allergies, viral or bacterial infections, smoking, and dry air, over-the-counter medicines can help alleviate the symptoms and provide relief. In this article, we will discuss the best off the shelf medicine for sore throat, their effectiveness, and how to use them.
1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that is commonly used to alleviate sore throat pain. It works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals responsible for pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen is available over the counter in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid. The recommended dosage for adults is 325 to 650 mg every four to six hours, not to exceed 3,000 mg per day. It is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid liver damage. Acetaminophen is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects like nausea, stomach pain, and rash.
2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are another class of pain relievers that are commonly used to alleviate sore throat pain. They work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals responsible for pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are available over the counter in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid. The most common NSAIDs are ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). The recommended dosage for adults is 200 to 400 mg every four to six hours for ibuprofen, and 220 mg every eight to 12 hours for naproxen. It is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid side effects like stomach pain, nausea, and bleeding.
3. Throat lozenges
Throat lozenges are a popular over-the-counter medicine for sore throat. They work by providing temporary relief of pain and irritation. Throat lozenges contain ingredients like menthol, eucalyptus, and benzocaine, which have a cooling and numbing effect on the throat. They also stimulate saliva production, which can help soothe the throat. Throat lozenges are available in various flavors and forms, including sugar-free, honey, and vitamin C. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the daily limit to avoid side effects like nausea, dizziness, and headache.
4. Cough suppressants
Cough suppressants are another over-the-counter medicine that can help alleviate sore throat. They work by blocking the cough reflex and reducing the urge to cough. Cough suppressants contain ingredients like dextromethorphan and codeine, which are effective in reducing coughing. They are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid. The recommended dosage for adults is one to two teaspoons every four hours, not to exceed six teaspoons per day. It is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation.
5. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a class of medicine that are commonly used to treat allergies, but they can also be effective in alleviating sore throat caused by allergies. They work by blocking the production of histamine, which is responsible for allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Antihistamines are available over the counter in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid. The most common antihistamines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and loratadine (Claritin). The recommended dosage for adults is 25 to 50 mg every four to six hours for diphenhydramine, and 10 mg once daily for loratadine. It is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision.
Conclusion
Sore throat can be a painful and annoying condition that can affect your daily activities. Over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen, NSAIDs, throat lozenges, cough suppressants, and antihistamines can help alleviate the symptoms and provide relief. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the daily limit to avoid side effects. If your sore throat persists for more than a week, or if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing, fever, and rash, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out a more serious condition.
