From the Guidelines
Sore throat sprays like Chloraseptic, Cepacol, or Vicks Vapocool can provide temporary relief from throat pain, but it is essential to prioritize analgesic therapy, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, as recommended by the guidelines 1. When managing acute sore throat, it is crucial to consider the underlying cause of the symptoms. For viral infections, symptomatic relief is the primary goal, whereas bacterial infections, such as group A streptococcal pharyngitis, may require antibiotic therapy 1. Some key points to consider when treating sore throat include:
- Using sore throat sprays, such as Chloraseptic, Cepacol, or Vicks Vapocool, for temporary pain relief, with a maximum of 12 doses in 24 hours for adults and children over 12, and fewer sprays for children 6-12 1.
- Prioritizing analgesic therapy, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, for relief of acute sore throat symptoms, as recommended by the guidelines 1.
- Considering antibiotic therapy for bacterial infections, such as group A streptococcal pharyngitis, with penicillin V being the first choice, and alternative options, such as amoxicillin, cephalosporins, or macrolides, for patients allergic to penicillin 1.
- Staying hydrated, using a humidifier, gargling with salt water, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, for additional relief 1. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider for persistent sore throats lasting more than a week, worsening symptoms, or fever above 101°F, to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Uses for the temporary relief of occasional minor irritation, pain, sore mouth, and sore throat Relieves sore throat The phenol (TOP) sore throat spray is used for the temporary relief of sore throat 2 2.
- Key uses: temporary relief of occasional minor irritation, pain, sore mouth, and sore throat
- Active ingredient: Phenol 1.4% Oral Anesthetic / Analgesic Spray
- Age restriction: For ages 2 years and older
From the Research
Sore Throat Spray Options
- Benzocaine lozenges have been shown to be effective in reducing painful pharyngeal discomfort in patients with acute, uncomplicated sore throat 3.
- Benzydamine hydrochloride is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with local anesthetic and analgesic properties, and is recognized as suitable for the topical treatment of sore throat symptoms and various inflammatory/irritative conditions of the oral cavity 4.
- Topical pharmacological agents such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, lidocaine, Glycyrrhiza (licorice), and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists (including ketamine and magnesium) can be used to prevent postoperative sore throat after tracheal intubation 5.
Efficacy of Sore Throat Sprays
- Benzocaine lozenges have been found to be superior to placebo lozenges in reducing pain intensity in patients with acute sore throat 3.
- Benzydamine hydrochloride is recommended by about 90% of pharmacists and prescribed by 80% of general practitioners for the treatment of sore throat and other irritative/inflammatory conditions of the oropharynx 4.
- A network meta-analysis found that Glycyrrhizin, corticosteroids, NSAIDs, and NMDA receptor antagonists (ketamine and magnesium) are associated with a reduced postoperative pharyngeal pain across different postsurgical time intervals 5.
Characteristics of Sore Throat Sprays
- Benzocaine lozenges have local anesthetic and analgesic properties, and are well-tolerated in patients with acute sore throat 3.
- Benzydamine hydrochloride has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anesthetic characteristics, making it suitable for the treatment of sore throat and other irritative/inflammatory conditions of the oropharynx 4.
- Topical pharmacological agents such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and NMDA receptor antagonists have different mechanisms of action and can be chosen according to clinical experience and patient preferences 5.