What medication should be taken for rhinitis, itchy throat, and cough?

Nov 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
During treatment for sore throat and cough caused by rhinitis, commonly used medications include loratadine tablets, montelukast sodium tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride drops, budesonide nasal spray, and Suhuang antitussive capsules. Loratadine tablets are antihistamines that block allergic reactions, relieve nasal itching and rhinorrhea caused by rhinitis, and simultaneously reduce throat itching and irritative cough resulting from allergies.

Nasal inflammation causing throat itching and cough is commonly treated with medications such as loratadine tablets, montelukast sodium tablets, cetirizine hydrochloride drops, budesonide nasal spray, and Suhuang antitussive capsules. Specific details are as follows:

1. Loratadine Tablets: This is an antihistamine that blocks allergic reactions, relieving nasal itching and runny nose caused by rhinitis, while also reducing throat itching and irritative cough due to allergies. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with effects lasting up to 24 hours, making it suitable for symptoms related to allergic rhinitis.

2. Montelukast Sodium Tablets: As a leukotriene receptor antagonist, it inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators, reduces inflammation in nasal mucosa and the throat, and alleviates throat itching and dry cough caused by rhinitis. It is especially appropriate for patients with coexisting asthma or prominent nighttime coughing. Regular use according to prescribed treatment duration is required.

3. Cetirizine Hydrochloride Drops: Also an antihistamine, this medication acts quickly to relieve allergy symptoms associated with rhinitis, including throat itching and cough. The droplet formulation allows flexible dose adjustment and is suitable for both adults and children. Drowsiness may occur, so caution should be taken to avoid excessive sedation after use.

4. Budesonide Nasal Spray: A nasal corticosteroid that reduces nasal mucosal inflammation and decreases postnasal drip (backward flow of nasal secretions), thereby addressing throat itching and cough at their source. Proper and consistent use is necessary to maintain effectiveness; abrupt discontinuation should be avoided.

5. Suhuang Antitussive Capsules: A traditional Chinese medicine that disperses wind, benefits lung function, relieves cough, and soothes the throat. It helps alleviate throat itching and dry cough caused by rhinitis, particularly effective for cough due to external wind invading the lungs. Spicy, raw, and cold foods should be avoided during treatment to ensure optimal efficacy.

Medication selection should be based on accurate diagnosis of the type of rhinitis (e.g., allergic or chronic) and must be done under medical supervision to prevent inappropriate self-medication. During treatment, maintain indoor air humidity and avoid triggers such as dust and pollen. If symptoms persist without improvement for more than one week, timely follow-up consultation is recommended to adjust the treatment plan.

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