Cough & Sore Throat Relief

More information about Cough & Sore Throat Relief

Having a sore throat can be uncomfortable and bothersome, and it can make swallowing and speaking painful. There are many potential causes of a sore throat, including bacteria, viruses and allergies. Viral infections, like the common cold or the flu, are typically the most common cause of sore throats. There are many over the counter (OTC) products to help soothe a sore throat, such as lozenges, sprays, capsules and liquid cough syrups. All of these products are available for purchase in store and online at Walgreens.

Effective ingredients for sore throat relief

Over-the-counter products contain different active ingredients to help ease the symptoms of a sore throat. The best product for you may vary depending on what is causing your sore throat. If you have a common cold or flu, cold medicines can help manage symptoms, including a sore throat. If your sore throat is the result of other issues, like allergies or acid reflux, then allergy medication or antacid tablets may help.

Regardless of the cause of your sore throat, products such as cough drops, throat lozenges and throat sprays can help temporarily soothe the painful and uncomfortable feeling in your throat. Some home remedies, like drinking warm liquids and using humidifiers and vaporizers to increase moisture in the air, may also provide relief for some people. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the cause of your sore throat and make a plan for treatment.

Types of sore throat medicine

There are a variety of medicines available over the counter for sore throats. Depending on the cause of your sore throat, these options may include cold and allergy medicines in addition to lozenges, cough drops, syrups and numbing sprays. Some over-the-counter pain relief products, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also reduce pain associated with a sore throat. Active ingredients in lozenges and sprays, such as menthol, benzocaine and phenol, can help numb the throat and reduce the pain and discomfort associated with a sore throat. There are many sore throat medicines available to purchase in store and online at Walgreens. Ask a team member or pharmacist if you need assistance finding the best option for you.

How sore throat medicine works and when to expect relief

Sore throat medicines, such as lozenges, cough drops and sprays, work by gently numbing the throat through oral pain-relieving ingredients like menthol, benzocaine or phenol. These medicines can provide quick relief, and many people will experience lessened symptoms immediately after using a throat spray or lozenge. Pain relief pills and cold medicines typically provide relief within 15 to 30 minutes. Consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about the causes of your sore throat and the most effective treatment for you.

Can sore throat medicine interact with other medications?

It is possible for certain medicines to interact with other medications. While sore throat medicine is generally safe for most adults to use according to the package instructions, some cough and cold medicines may not be safe to take if you are taking certain medications. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking sore throat medicine if you take any medications or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult with your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve after several days of taking medicine for sore throat or if you experience any severe symptoms, such as vomiting or a fever above 100.4 F.

Safe sore throat medicine for children

For children over the age of 4, sore throat medicines like cough drops, lozenges and throat sprays are generally safe for use. Be sure to read the product label carefully and follow the dosing instructions for your child. There are certain sore throat medicines that are made especially for children. These medicines can be helpful, depending on the cause of the sore throat. Options include children’s cough syrup and children’s allergy medicines. For children between the ages of 1 and 4, warm liquids can be helpful for soothing a sore throat. Consult your healthcare provider before giving over-the-counter sore throat medicine to children under 4, and speak with your provider right away if your child is experiencing severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing, eating or drinking, or if they are experiencing a high fever.