Cough drops come in medicated or nonmedicated forms. One medication included may be menthol. Natural cough drops may contain citrus extract, honey or herbs said to sooth the throat or lubricate it. A discrete cough drop can provide a quick fix to a scratchy, dry throat or a pesky cough. Some manufacturers provide vitamin supplementation in the form of a tasty lozenge.
Ease Sore Throat
A cough drop or lozenge may help lubricate the throat, which can reduce the pain felt when swallowing or talking. The cough drop may not cure the underlying issue but may provide temporary pain relief. Menthol or medicated cough drops may reduce the pain in addition to promoting lubrication of the irritated area. Sucking on a hard candy or cough drop can also increase salivation to lubricate the throat naturally.
Reduce Coughing
Cough drops lubricate the throat to ease the scratchiness that leads to coughing. The lozenge or cough drop will not cure the underlying cause of the cough, but it may temporarily end a coughing spell. According to Medicinenet.com, zinc in lozenges has been shown to reduce coughing and discomfort but is recommended only for short term use. Some cough drop makers claim their product is able to suppress the impulse to cough during an illness.
Supplement Vitamins
Specific brands of cough drops are said to include vitamins like vitamin C. These cough drops are indicated for regular use as a dietary supplement. Claims made by one brand, Halls Defense at GetHalls.com suggest that the cough drop includes 100% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. The website also suggests the cough drop can assist users in immune system support. Other ingredients include zinc and echinacea, which are said to promote natural health and wellness, per GetHalls.com. Extended use is not recommended by the manufacturer.
