How Do Cough Drops Work?

A cough can be very irritating. People may reach for cough drops because they know this remedy is highly effective at soothing their sore throat and reducing coughing. However, most people are unaware of why cough drops work.

Most people don’t question how cough drops work; they just appreciate the relief they provide when they use them. Cough drops deliver active ingredients that will help reduce throat irritation while minimizing any dryness. The cough drops also work on the cough reflex.

What Exactly Are Cough Drops?

Cough drops, also called throat lozenges, are small, medicated products that dissolve slowly in the user’s mouth. They come in different flavors and contain active ingredients that soothe the throat and help reduce coughing outbreaks. These drops contain active ingredients that will help produce the desired effects.

Menthol is commonly found in cough drops because it soothes the throat while helping reduce coughing. It does so by acting as a cooling agent. A cough drop may also contain eucalyptus oil, which has both soothing and decongestant properties, and honey is a natural ingredient that soothes and moisturizes the throat. Benzocaine may also be included in the cough drop because it is a local anesthetic that numbs the throat.

Cough drops today often contain herbal extracts, such as slippery elm, to reduce inflammation and soothe irritation. Most cough drops also have flavoring agents to make them tastier, so people are more likely to use them. These flavors may range from mint to cherry. The active ingredients are contained in base ingredients, which are nothing more than substances that give cough drops their desired shape. These ingredients also allow the cough drop to dissolve slowly, providing extended relief. The user sucks on the cough drop, allowing it to dissolve in the mouth and release the active ingredients slowly.

Cough drops can be purchased over the counter. They are found in most big-box stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies today. However, they are only designed to provide temporary relief. The cough drops will not address the underlying cause of the cough and/or sore throat. Individuals should use them as part of a larger treatment plan.

Why Are Cough Drops Effective?

Some people view cough drops as nothing more than candy. However, they are much more than this.  They soothe and moisturize the throat, helping prevent coughing by easing discomfort and irritation. Menthol is found in many cough drops and suppresses the cough reflex by acting as a mild anesthetic. The cough drop may also help fight viruses and bacteria in the throat, reducing the severity of the cough or sore throat.

Can Cough Drops Cure a Cough?

Many people wonder if cough drops alone can cure a cough. They are not designed to serve as a cure. The goal of using cough drops is to provide temporary relief from any symptoms the person is experiencing. A healthcare provider will need to be seen to determine the underlying causes and develop a more comprehensive treatment plan.

The Drawbacks of Cough Drops

People must be aware that cough drops have drawbacks. They provide temporary relief, but these drops often contain sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, cavities, and higher blood sugar levels. A person should use cough drops only when necessary.

Regularly using cough drops can lead to dependence. People may find they’re using the cough drops even when they aren’t necessary. As a result, they take in more of the active ingredients than is truly necessary.

Individuals who frequently experience coughs need to determine the underlying cause. A medical professional can help them do so. The cough drops are designed to provide temporary relief, but they don’t address the root cause of the symptoms. People should see their doctor to ensure they do not have a serious condition that requires treatment.

Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to the active ingredients found in cough drops. They may develop a skin rash or find they have trouble breathing. A few people experience swelling when using cough drops. A medical professional should investigate any signs like these to determine whether it’s an allergic reaction or something else.

Individuals who use cough drops regularly may find they experience side effects. Active ingredients can cause side effects when used excessively. Menthol is one active ingredient that a person may react to. They may find that they develop headaches, nausea, or dizziness with frequent use of the cough drops.

Cough drops might interact with other medications an individual is taking. Men and women who follow a low-sugar diet might find that sugar and cough drops are a problem. The same holds for people taking medications designed to control their blood sugar.

If a person has a severe or chronic cough, cough drops might not help. They need to see their doctor to learn what is going on. The doctor will provide them with an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.

Parents should never give their young children cough drops, as they are a choking hazard. Furthermore, individuals with swallowing difficulties should not use cough drops. They may unintentionally swallow the cough drop and choke.

Alternatives to Cough Drops

Men and women might wish to consider trying alternatives to cough drops. Honey is a natural remedy that can help control a cough, but it should never be used in children under one year old. Herbal tea often soothes the throat, helping relieve a persistent cough.

Another option is to humidify the air, which could help relieve an individual’s dry throat and reduce coughing.  If a humidifier is unavailable, a person can inhale steam from a warm shower to break up mucus in the airways. Doing so will reduce the cough.

Gargling with salt water may help calm a chronic cough. However, some people find that over-the-counter cough medications provide the most relief. Remaining hydrated is essential when a person has a cough, as moisture can help soothe the throat.

Nobody wants to deal with a persistent cough; it is irritating and can interfere with other activities they wish to engage in. Cough drops are a temporary solution to this problem, but people must use them wisely. Those who do find relief do so quickly and easily.