What anti-inflammatory medication should I take for a sore throat?
Jun 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, a sore throat may be related to dry throat, excessive use of the voice, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or epiglottitis. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as metronidazole tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules may be taken for treatment. Patients should follow a light, easily digestible diet and avoid spicy or greasy foods to prevent worsening of symptoms.
Under normal circumstances, sore throat may be related to dry throat, excessive voice use, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, epiglottitis, and other conditions. Anti-inflammatory medications such as metronidazole tablets, cefixime dispersible tablets, and levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules may be taken under a doctor's guidance for treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Throat
Dry throat occurs when the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat lack sufficient moisture, causing the mucosal surface to become dry and congested, thereby leading to throat swelling and pain. Maintaining adequate hydration, avoiding prolonged exposure to dry environments, using humidifiers appropriately, and avoiding excessive voice use can help alleviate this condition.
2. Excessive Voice Use
Prolonged loud speaking, singing, or frequent throat clearing can overwork the throat muscles and mucous membranes, causing local congestion and edema, which results in a sensation of swelling and pain. Reasonable scheduling of voice use, avoiding excessive voice strain, practicing proper pronunciation techniques, and allowing adequate rest can help reduce the burden on the throat.
3. Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, such as influenza virus or streptococcus. The inflammation causes congestion and edema of the pharyngeal mucosa, stimulating nerve endings and causing throat swelling and pain. Accompanying symptoms may include a foreign body sensation in the throat and coughing. Medications such as metronidazole tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules may be used under a doctor's guidance for treatment.
4. Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is primarily caused by bacterial infections such as streptococcus, although it can also be triggered by viral infections. The tonsils become swollen and congested, pressing on surrounding tissues, causing throat swelling and pain. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, high fever, and headache. Medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, cefixime dispersible tablets, and acetaminophen tablets may be used under medical advice for treatment.
5. Epiglottitis
Epiglottitis is mostly caused by bacterial infection, viral infection, or allergic reaction. The epiglottis swells, blocking the laryngeal cavity, leading to throat swelling and pain as well as breathing difficulties. Symptoms such as fever and chills may also occur. Treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as compound licorice tablets, azithromycin dispersible tablets, and amoxicillin capsules.
Patients should maintain a light and easily digestible diet, avoiding spicy and greasy foods to prevent worsening of the condition. Additionally, ensuring adequate sleep and maintaining a positive mood can also aid in recovery.
