Hey there! If you’ve landed on this page, chances are you or someone close to you is struggling with throat pain. Don’t worry – I’ve been there too. That annoying itch, the pain while swallowing, and that constant urge to clear your throat – it can drive anyone up the wall!
Let’s break it down together and see what medicines can actually help, especially those easily available in India. I’ll keep it simple, no complicated medical jargon, and share what’s worked for me and countless others.
Common Causes of Throat Pain
Before we jump into medicines, let’s quickly look at why your throat might be hurting.
- Viral infections – Like the common cold or flu (what we desi folks often call seasonal fever).
- Bacterial infections – Like strep throat, which might need antibiotics.
- Allergies – Dust, pollution or change in weather.
- Acid reflux – That burning feeling after spicy food or oily chaat.
- Overuse of voice – Shouting at a cricket match or singing at a sangeet!
Identifying the cause helps in choosing the right treatment.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Look, home remedies and OTC medicines are great, but don’t delay seeing a doctor if:
- Your throat pain lasts more than a week
- You have high fever (above 101°F)
- There’s difficulty breathing or swallowing
- You see white patches or pus on your tonsils
- Your voice is hoarse for more than 2-3 weeks
Top Medicines for Throat Pain (Easily Available in India)
1️⃣ Paracetamol / Crocin / Calpol
If your throat pain comes with fever or body ache (which it often does), Paracetamol is your best friend. It helps reduce fever and eases throat discomfort.
- Dosage: Usually 500 mg every 6-8 hours for adults. But don’t overdo it – max 4 times a day.
- Available as: Tablets, syrups (for kids).
- Where to buy: Any chemist, online stores like 1mg, Netmeds.
2️⃣ Lozenges (Strepsils / Vicks / Halls / Himalaya Koflet)
These are those small tablets you suck on slowly. They soothe the throat and provide temporary relief.
- Tip: Choose honey, ginger or tulsi flavours for extra comfort.
- Where to buy: Kirana shops, chemists, or online.
- Note: Don’t overuse; too many lozenges can upset your stomach.
3️⃣ Antacid (Gelusil / Digene)
If your throat pain is due to acid reflux (common after heavy meals or spicy food), an antacid can help neutralise the acid and reduce that burning pain.
- Signs it’s acid reflux: You feel heartburn, sour taste in mouth, pain worse at night.
- Tip: Sleep with your head slightly raised and avoid oily food.
4️⃣ Cetirizine / Allegra (For Allergy-Related Throat Irritation)
If your throat pain is because of dust, pollen, or pollution allergy (we all know how bad air can get during Diwali or winter in North India), an antihistamine like Cetirizine can help.
- Dosage: Once a day (preferably at night as it can cause drowsiness).
5️⃣ Antibiotics (Only if prescribed!)
Sometimes the throat pain is due to bacterial infection (like strep throat). Your doctor might give you antibiotics like:
- Azithromycin
- Amoxicillin + Clavulanic acid (Augmentin)
Important: Don’t self-medicate. Only take antibiotics if your doctor prescribes them – unnecessary use can lead to resistance.
Home Remedies That Actually Work (Tried & Tested in Indian Homes)
- Garam paani + namak gargle – Simple salt water gargles 2-3 times a day can give immense relief.
- Honey + ginger juice – A spoon of honey with few drops of ginger juice works wonders.
- Tulsi + mulethi tea – A warm cup of this herbal mix can soothe your throat.
- Stay hydrated – Drink warm water, soups, herbal teas. Avoid very cold drinks.
- Steam inhalation – Especially if you also have nose congestion.
What to Avoid When You Have Throat Pain
- Very spicy, oily food – It can irritate the throat more.
- Smoking or exposure to smoke – Slows down healing.
- Whispering too much – Actually strains your voice more!
When Is Throat Pain Serious?
If you have throat pain along with:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Swelling in the neck
- Unable to swallow even liquids
- Blood in saliva
- Ear pain along with throat pain
Please don’t wait. Rush to a hospital or consult an ENT specialist.
Ayurvedic & Natural Medicines Popular in India
If you prefer going the natural route, these are popular in Indian households:
🌱 Dabur Honitus Syrup – For cough + throat irritation
🌱 Himalaya Septilin – Supports immunity
🌱 Zandu Chyawanprash – To boost overall immunity, especially in winters
🌱 Ayush Kwath (Immunity kadha) – Recommended by the Ministry of AYUSH during COVID times
Over-the-Counter Brands You’ll Find Across India
Here’s a handy list of brands that are safe (when taken as per dosage) and easy to find at your local medical store or online:
Type | Popular Brands |
Pain relievers | Crocin, Calpol, Dolo 650 |
Lozenges | Strepsils, Halls, Vicks |
Cough/throat syrups | Honitus, Benadryl, Ascoril |
Antacids | Digene, Gelusil |
Allergy meds | Cetirizine, Allegra |
Tips to Heal Faster
- Rest your voice – talk less, no shouting
- Sip warm liquids – chaai, soups, herbal teas
- Use a humidifier if air is dry
- Keep your surroundings clean – reduce dust
- Wash hands regularly – avoid catching infections
Final thoughts
I’ve had my fair share of throat pain – from catching a cold during monsoon season in Mumbai to that dry throat thanks to Delhi winters. What I’ve learnt is this:
- Most throat pains go away in a few days with basic care.
- Don’t rush for antibiotics unless really needed.
- Home remedies + OTC meds = great combo.
- If it’s not improving, don’t hesitate to see a doc