Acute sore throat revisited: clinical and experimental evidence for the efficacy of over-the-counter AMC/DCBA throat lozenges

Abstract Acute sore throat is a minor, self-limiting ailment, but patients commonly seek advice and treatment for immediate symptomatic relief. However, most sore throats due to upper respiratory tract infections are viral in nature, and antibiotics often prescribed are not suitable for the treatment of sore throat, as reflected in many European guidelines. topical treatments are available over the counter, including throat sprays, gargles and lozenges. We discuss some of the `ideal? features of over-the-counter options in the treatment of simple sore throat cases. The main features include the direct targeting of the viral and inflammatory causes, the provision of local pain relief, rapid onset of action and prolonged duration of action, effectiveness over a range of different types of sore throat, an ability to address the emotional aspects associated with having a sore throat and a good safety profile. Some recent clinical and experimental evidence on the efficacy and postulated mechanism of action for amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol-containing lozenges, that have been marketed for many years are also discussed as an illustration of such targeted approach.