10 Effective Medications for Itchy Throat and Dry Cough

There is no such thing as "10 miracle drugs for itchy throat and dry cough." Medications used to treat itchy throat and dry cough include central antitussives, peripheral antitussives, antihistamines, glucocorticoids, and throat-soothing agents. Selection should be based on the underlying cause to ensure appropriate treatment, and blind use of medications should be avoided as it may mask the condition. If a dry cough persists for more than one week or is accompanied by fever or difficulty breathing, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Central antitussives: These work by suppressing the cough center in the medulla and are suitable for severe, non-productive dry coughs. They can quickly relieve cough symptoms, but dosage must be strictly controlled to avoid side effects such as drowsiness, which may affect daily activities.

2. Peripheral antitussives: These act on sensory receptors in the respiratory mucosa to reduce coughing triggered by irritation. They have relatively fewer side effects and are suitable for mild to moderate dry coughs, especially for individuals who cannot tolerate central antitussives.

3. Antihistamines: Used for itchy throat and dry cough caused by allergies, these drugs block histamine receptors, reducing mucosal congestion and itching, thereby alleviating allergy-related cough symptoms. Some may cause mild discomfort such as dry mouth.

4. Glucocorticoids: Possessing strong anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects, they are suitable for dry coughs with significant inflammatory responses, such as those caused by allergic pharyngitis or bronchitis. They should only be used short-term under medical supervision.

5. Throat-soothing agents: Often traditional Chinese medicines or topical treatments, these help moisturize the throat mucosa, relieve dryness and itching, and alleviate irritative dry coughs. They are ideal for coughs caused by dryness of the throat mucosa and can serve as adjunctive therapy.

During treatment, maintain proper indoor humidity, drink plenty of warm water to soothe the throat, avoid smoking, alcohol, and spicy or irritating foods, minimize excessive voice use, maintain regular sleep patterns, and strengthen overall immunity to promote faster symptom relief.