Levocetirizine for sore throat: what to know

This medicine blocks histamine and can reduce sneezing, itching and watery nasal discharge. Those symptoms can accompany allergic rhinitis, while throat irritation may result from mucus draining from the nose. Levocetirizine does not treat the viruses or bacteria that cause many sore throats. A sore throat may occur with a common cold, influenza, COVID-19, tonsillitis or strep throat; reflux can also irritate the throat, and glandular fever is another possibility.

Take levocetirizine only according to the product instructions or a clinician’s advice. Do not use it as a substitute for assessment when the throat pain is severe or accompanied by fever. Rest, drink fluids and choose soothing foods or drinks that you can swallow comfortably. It may cause drowsiness or dry mouth; avoid alcohol and check with a pharmacist before combining it with sedating medicines. Do not start antibiotics without a diagnosis, because they do not treat viral illness.

Get urgent help if you cannot breathe or swallow saliva, your voice becomes muffled, or swelling develops around the mouth or throat. Seek medical advice for severe pain, a persistent fever, a rash, marked neck swelling, dehydration, or symptoms that are getting worse. Testing may be needed when strep throat or another specific infection is suspected.

Could nasal allergy be irritating my throat, or is another cause more likely? Do I need a throat examination or test? Which symptom-relief options are safe with my medicines?