Cough sweets: what to know

Lozenges stimulate saliva and coat or cool an irritated throat, which may make coughing feel less troublesome. Their benefit is temporary. Some contain medicines, menthol, local anaesthetic or herbal ingredients, while others are simple confectionery. Check the label rather than assuming every product works in the same way.

People with diabetes, allergies, swallowing difficulty or sensitivity to particular ingredients should ask a pharmacist for an appropriate option. Several products can add unwanted ingredients when used alongside cold remedies.

Let a lozenge dissolve slowly and follow the package directions. Sip water, try a warm drink, rest, and avoid smoke or other throat irritants. A pharmacist can check the ingredients against your medicines and health conditions. If the cough is linked with a cold, allergy, reflux or airway disease, treating that trigger may provide better relief.

Seek urgent medical help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion or coughing blood. Arrange review for a persistent or worsening cough, high fever, repeated wheeze, dehydration or difficulty swallowing. Common Cold, Acute Bronchitis, Asthma and Acid Reflux can all involve cough but may need different care.

Ask whether the product contains an active medicine, whether it suits your conditions and medicines, and how long self-care is reasonable. Explain whether your cough is dry, phlegmy, seasonal, worse at night or accompanied by breathlessness.