SUMMARY
Aim: As antibiotics are generally not recommended for the treatment of acute
sore throat, the availability of clinically efficacious, over-the-counter (OTC) treatment
alternatives is becoming increasingly important. This study was designed to
determine the analgesic properties of amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol
(AMC ⁄ DCBA) throat lozenges (Strepsils) in the relief of acute sore throat
caused by upper respiratory tract infections. Methods: Patients (n = 310) were
randomly assigned to receive AMC ⁄ DCBA throat lozenges (n = 155) or nonmedicated
placebo lozenges (n = 155). After baseline assessments, patients completed
three rating assessments at 10 timepoints from 5 to 20 min after first dose.
Subsequent lozenges were taken as required, and assessments were made at the
end of Day 1, 24 h after first dose, and at the end of Days 2 and 3. Analgesic
properties were assessed by comparing severity of throat soreness and sore throat
relief ratings. Difficulty in swallowing and functional impairment scores were also
assessed. Results: Amylmetacresol ⁄ DCBA throat lozenges reduced throat soreness
at 5 min after first dose, which persisted for 2 h and was significantly different vs.
non-medicated lozenges at all assessment timepoints for the duration of the
3-day study. Similar significant effects were observed with sore throat relief,
easing of difficulty with swallowing and functional impairment scores. There
were no differences in adverse events reported between treatment groups.
Conclusion: Amylmetacresol ⁄ DCBA throat lozenges provide rapid analgesic effects
that last for 2 h, providing ongoing relief long after the lozenge has dissolved. The
superior analgesic effects and improvements in functional impairment scores
observed with AMC ⁄ DCBA throat lozenges translate into pain relief benefits that
are clinically meaningful and are thus a suitable OTC treatment option for patients
in the self-management of acute sore throat.