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Does Frequent Use Of Cough Drops With Menthol Cause Throat Problems?

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Posted on Fri, 21 Nov 2014
Question: Do taking cough drops with menthol regularly cause throat problems?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr.N.Senduran (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Likely to cause.

Detailed Answer:
Hello there,
I am Dr.Senduran,General physician hope to answer your query.

Yes, regular use and inappropriate dosing of cough drops can cause throat problems like irritation and sore throat. Also post surgery, throat issues can well be related with the drops. Cough drops are intended for temporary relief only.

Hope I have answered your query. If any concern,don't hesitate to ask.
Take care

PS: Use normal saline gargling or betadine solution gargling to prevent cough after discussing with your physician
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr.N.Senduran (15 hours later)
Is it the menthol that is bad? Or is it the everyday usage? I average about two a day. I take one after a cough if drinking water does not stop the cough.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr.N.Senduran (8 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Not bad for short term usage.

Detailed Answer:
Hello there.
Thank you for the follow up query.

Menthol containing cough drops is not as such bad when used short term (say 5 to 7 days).

Your dosing and frequency is fine. But in future,you may get dependent because of its cool soothing effect.

Everyday usage of menthol cough drops can cause delay or interfere in the healing process of wounds (in your case, may delay the complete recovery period after throat surgery

It is advisable to prevent or treat the underlying cause for recurrent cough (if any) rather than treating with cough suppressants.

PS: Avoid exposure to dust(irritants), avoid any triggers that provoke the cough like spicy food items etc.

Hope this answers your query.If any concerns,don't hesitate to ask..

Take care.Wish you good health.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr.N.Senduran

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2011

Answered : 407 Questions

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Does Frequent Use Of Cough Drops With Menthol Cause Throat Problems?

Brief Answer: Likely to cause. Detailed Answer: Hello there, I am Dr.Senduran,General physician hope to answer your query. Yes, regular use and inappropriate dosing of cough drops can cause throat problems like irritation and sore throat. Also post surgery, throat issues can well be related with the drops. Cough drops are intended for temporary relief only. Hope I have answered your query. If any concern,don't hesitate to ask. Take care PS: Use normal saline gargling or betadine solution gargling to prevent cough after discussing with your physician