Can Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets be taken for a sore throat?

Generally speaking, whether Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets can be taken for a sore throat depends on the specific cause of the throat pain and the patient's physical condition. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

In traditional Chinese medicine, this medication may be considered appropriate for sore throats caused by excessive internal heat in the lungs and stomach—characterized by symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain in the throat, dry mouth, swollen and painful gums, and constipation—particularly in individuals with a predominantly "hot" constitution who do not have sensitivity to cold-natured remedies. Under a doctor’s guidance, the tablets may be used, as they contain ingredients like bezoar and realgar, which have effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, reducing fire, and promoting bowel movements, thereby effectively relieving discomfort caused by heat syndromes.

Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets are ineffective for non-heat-related sore throats—for example, those caused by wind-cold感冒 (such as itchy, painful throat accompanied by chills and runny nose), or those due to yin deficiency with hyperactivity of fire (manifesting as dry, painful throat that worsens at night). Individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold may experience abdominal pain or diarrhea after taking the tablets. Pregnant women, children, and patients with impaired liver or kidney function should avoid using this product; those with allergic constitutions should use it cautiously.

To relieve sore throat, it is important to keep the throat moist by drinking plenty of warm water and consuming light, easily digestible foods. Avoid spicy, irritating, greasy, or excessively hot foods. Ensure adequate rest, minimize voice use, and avoid smoking, alcohol, dust, and exposure to irritating gases, all of which help promote healing of the throat mucosa and alleviate pain symptoms.