Sore throat is a frequent reason for seeking medical care but few prescription
options are available. Lozenges are effective in delivering active ingredients to the throat. This study was
conducted to determine the analgesic efficacy of two lozenges one containing amylmetacresol (AMC)/2,4-
dichlorobenzyl alcohol (DCBA) and lidocaine and one containing hexylresorcinol versus placebo in
patients with acute sore throat due to upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Methods: This was a
multicentre, randomised, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled study. In total, 190 patients were
randomised 1:1:1 to a single dose of AMC/DCBA + lidocaine, hexylresorcinol or placebo lozenge.
Subjective ratings of throat soreness, difficulty swallowing, swollen throat, numbing, and sore throat relief
were obtained up to 2 hours post dose. Patient and investigator global ratings and a consumer questionnaire
were also collected. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline in severity of throat soreness for
both lozenges versus placebo at 2 hours post dose.