Rating of the best remedies for sore throat for 2024

Angina is a fairly common disease, especially among children. It poses a serious health threat. Given the large number of advertisements and consumer recommendations on the Internet, it is sometimes difficult to make a choice about which drug is best to buy. The rating of the best remedies for sore throat for 2024 gives an idea of ​​how to choose drugs, which ones are effective, and also reveals a description of their characteristics.

What is angina

The popular name of the disease comes from the Latin "ango", which in translation means "choke", "squeeze", "squeeze". The correct scientific name for the disease is acute tonsillitis, from tonsillae, a word that also has a Latin origin and translates as "tonsils". The name is derived from the site of the main lesion in the disease.

In patients with angina, the lymphoid tissue between the oral cavity and the pharynx becomes inflamed. Large accumulations of such tissue are called tonsils, they are responsible for the body's immune defenses. Most often, with acute tonsillitis, the palatine is affected.

The disease has been known since ancient times, as early as the 4th century. BC. it was mentioned in the works of Hippocrates. The main etiological causes of angina:

• streptococcus (most often), staphylococcus, similar bacteria, or a combination thereof;
• viruses (Coxsackie, adeno, herpes);
• fungi of the yeast type Candida (in the presence of some cocci);
• spirochete in combination with a fusiform rod.

These pathogens do not always lead to sore throat. Their effect is enhanced in the presence of some additional conditions:

• inflammatory diseases of ENT organs, which are chronic in nature, as well as a violation of nasal breathing;
• traumatic injury to the tonsils;
• transferred hypothermia;
• weak general immunity.

The disease is dangerous in itself, it is also contagious to others. In addition, improper treatment or weakening of the body can lead to various complications in the form of:

• otitis media;
• laryngeal edema;
• sinusitis;
• pharyngeal abscess;
• meningitis;
• rheumatism and arthritis;
• glomerulonephritis;
• sepsis;
• cervical lymphadenitis;
• renal failure.

Disease symptoms

The external manifestations of the disease are somewhat different and depend on its type. Among the general indicators characteristic of any type, one can single out:

• redness of the tonsils and their enlargement;
• difficulty swallowing;
• sore throat;
• weakness, manifestation of intoxication of the body;
• clinical changes in blood counts characteristic of the inflammatory process;
• enlargement and soreness of the lymph nodes;
• elevated temperature (in most cases).

Most often, acute tonsillitis manifests itself in the appearance of plaque on the tonsils, but in some cases it may be absent.

What are the types of disease

There are different types of disease, depending on the separation criterion that underlies. The clinical manifestations of a particular species differ from the other.

Depending on the nature of the flow:

• Sharp. Symptoms appear suddenly and are pronounced. Recovery takes 3-20 days, depending on the condition of the patient, the pathogen and the selected treatment.
• Chronic. There is constant redness of the tonsils, some increase is possible. Periodically (from 4 times a year), a sharp exacerbation of inflammation with a characteristic picture appears.

Due to the appearance of sore throat, there are: bacterial, allergic, viral, fungal. There is also a variety that exists as a manifestation of diseases of the hematopoietic system. Bacterial tonsillitis, depending on the pathogen, are divided into caused by:

• Streptococcus. The patient's temperature rises sharply, the tonsils swell and turn red, plaque appears, purulent plugs, fibrinous film or massive accumulations of pus are possible. Swallowing is painful.
• Group A streptococcus, secreting erythrotoxin. The picture resembles scarlet fever. Against the background of common symptoms with steptococcal angina, a small rash appears on the face, tongue and body, the tongue itself takes on a raspberry hue.
• Bacillus Leffler. Both tonsils are affected, there is a very dense grayish plaque on them, which is removed with great difficulty. High fever, pain when swallowing is accompanied.
• Staphylococcus aureus. The picture of symptoms is similar to streptococcal sore throat, however, pain is more pronounced, treatment takes longer, the disease is more severe, and complications are possible.
• Spirochete and fusiform bacillus. The temperature often does not rise, one amygdala is affected, on which a grayish-yellow film, ulcerative formation is noticeable. The patient has high salivation, a feeling of the presence of a foreign body in the pharynx, a sharp putrid odor from the mouth, an increase in lymph nodes on one side. Treatment can take several months.

Viral tonsillitis, in contrast to bacterial, are triggered by infections against the background of viruses. In this group, the following are distinguished:

• Paramyxoviruses. There is a high fever, painful swallowing, enlargement of the tonsils, their redness in the form of spots or blisters, a rash on the skin is possible.
• Herpes fever virus. There is a bilateral lesion, a very high (up to 41 degrees) temperature. In the mouth, pharynx, sometimes on the lips, there are bubbles.
• Herpes zoster virus. The picture is similar to the previous version, but is observed only on one side. There may be echoes of pain in the ear or eyes.
• Coxsackie. Characterized by a sharp rise in temperature up to 40 degrees, sore throat. Bubbles are noted on the tonsils (sometimes feet and hands). After a couple of days, they burst, leaving erosion.

Fungal tonsillitis or mycoses are more rare. Mostly caused by fungi of the genus:

• Candida. Against the background of normal temperature, cheesy masses are noted on the tonsils, located in the form of spots. Soreness is present when food is swallowed.
• Leptotrix. The patient does not feel a significant sore throat, the temperature often does not rise. The pharynx and base of the tongue are covered with a large number of small white dots.

Angina, provoked by blood diseases, can be agranulocytic, monocytic, or occurring against the background of leukemia. In all cases, the patient's temperature is high, there are severe sore throats, a putrid odor, ulcers on the tonsils and enlarged lymph nodes. Also, in clinical blood tests, characteristic changes are observed.

One of the most popular classifications of acute tonsillitis is by the form of the disease. Based on this criterion, the following types are distinguished:

• Follicular. The patient's temperature is about 39 ° C, there are complaints of severe sore throat, sometimes radiating to the ear.The tonsils and palate are reddened, there is a yellowish coating in the form of round dots, slightly raised above the surface. Can be observed: enlarged lymph nodes, spleen, vomiting, headache, fever, pain in the lumbar region, confusion. Treatment takes 7 days or more.
• Catarrhal. The patient notes a sore throat, dry tongue, slight pain. The temperature may rise slightly or remain normal, the lymph nodes are slightly enlarged. Tonsils are reddened, slightly swollen, often without plaque, but a thin mucous membrane is possible. The treatment takes 3-7 days.
• Lacunar. Temperature about 40 ° C, very severe sore throat, yellowish-white purulent plaque in the form of massive areas. Recovery takes about a week.
• Fibrinous. It occurs against the background of the previous 3 types or as a consequence of them. The manifestations are similar, but almost immediately a continuous film appears on and outside the tonsils. It is accompanied by fever, severe intoxication, symptoms of brain damage are possible.
• Phlegmonous. A rare form, more often a consequence of another type of angina, is observed only on one side. Temperature up to 40 ° C, severe pain when swallowing, swollen lymph nodes. The surface of the amygdala is tense, taut, palate mobility is limited, there is an asymmetry of the pharynx.

Treatment for sore throat

The fight against the disease should begin as early as possible, especially with purulent sore throat, given the possible complications. The patient must be provided with bed rest, it is highly undesirable to endure acute tonsillitis "on his feet."

Basic remedies for sore throat and sore throat:

• Antibiotics These include drugs of the penicillin series, macrolides, cephalosposrins, lincosamides.
• Antipyretic and pain relieving medications if necessary.
• Antifungal medicines (if the causative agent is a fungus).
• Local antiseptics (alcohol-free sprays, rinses). Aerosols help fight bacteria and relieve pain. Gargles can be diluted furacilin or physiological saline.

To alleviate the condition, it is permissible for the patient to be given various lozenges and dragees for resorption, but they cannot act as the main remedy. If an antibacterial drug is used, you can take remedies to protect the stomach and intestinal microflora. You will also need a plentiful warm drink, a diet rich in vitamins C, B.

How to choose a medicine

The advice of friends will not help when choosing a remedy for the treatment of angina; it is necessary to be guided by what will be suitable for the patient in the opinion of doctors. The consultation of a specialist and the diagnostics carried out will allow to identify the cause of the disease and the correct strategy of exposure in a particular case. You should not use folk remedies as the main method of treatment, because wrong tactics can lead to serious complications. Criteria for choosing a drug to fight tonsillitis:

• suitable medication indications;
• contraindications of the drug should not be in the patient's history;
• the minimum list of side effects;
• compliance with the patient's age;
• the drug is not addictive;
• only the best manufacturers - the trademark must exist for a long time, have no experience in consumer lawsuits, use high-quality components and pass the necessary certification;
• a suitable drug for the price.

Top-rated drugs

It cannot be said which drugs are the best. Each pharmacy has its own advantages and is relevant for a specific type of disease. It is important that the instructions for use are followed, the established course has been completely completed. You can buy medicines at the pharmacy or order online. The rating of quality and safe drugs, as well as their characteristics are presented below.

We recommend purchasing drugs from the list of those prescribed by the attending physician.

Cefixime

• Release form: tablets, powder for suspensions.
• Active ingredient: cefixime (3 generation cephalosporins, antibiotic), active against streptococci.
• Age limit: over 6 months.

Side effects: gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation, dizziness, thrombocytopenia, kidney and liver dysfunction, pancytopenia, neutropenia, leukopenia, candidiasis, anemia, eosinophilia.

Contraindications: allergies, hypersensitivity, renal failure. With caution - pregnancy, old age, colitis.

Shelf life: 2 years, ready-made suspension - 10 days.

Price: 450-800 rubles.

• a fairly safe remedy;
• can be used to treat children;
• effective drug;
• the patient's condition improves quickly;
• consumed regardless of food intake.

• action only against streptococcal type of angina;
• there are side effects;
• there are contraindications, undesirable for pregnant women.

Amoxiclav

• Release form: powder for suspension, tablets.
• Active ingredient: amoxicillin (penicillin antibiotic), clavulanic acid (inhibitor). It is active against streptococci, staphylococci, enterococci.
• Age limit: suspension - no limit, tablets - over 12 years old.

Side effects: mild. Possible indigestion, liver dysfunction, hepatitis, allergic skin manifestations, candidiasis.

Contraindications: a history of hypersensitivity, jaundice or liver dysfunction while taking drugs of a similar group. Exercise caution in case of previous colitis, liver failure, mononucleosis, serious kidney problems, pregnancy.

Shelf life: 2 years, diluted suspension - 7 days.

Cost: 120-720 rubles.

• one form of medication can be used for a child, including a newborn;
• fairly inexpensive pills;
• effective against tonsillitis caused by various bacteria;
• side effects are relatively rare;
• time-tested drug, good reviews in the opinion of buyers and doctors.

• taking the medicine is associated with eating;
• acts on the stomach;
• there is a list of contraindications;
• short shelf life of the finished product.

Sumamed

• Release form: capsules, tablets, powder for infusion, suspensions.
• Active ingredient: azithromycin (macrolide antibiotic), active against cocci of different groups.
• Age limit: for different species from 6 months, 3 or 12 years.

Side effects: anorexia, skin allergies, eosinophilia, lymphopenia, dizziness, visual impairment, deafness, gastrointestinal upset, arthralgia, weakness are common. Other violations are rare.

Contraindications: breastfeeding, significant disorders in the liver and kidneys, taking ergotamine, sensitivity to the active ingredient. Caution should be exercised when taking terfenadine, digoxin, warfarin, as well as those who have a predisposition to arrhythmias.

Shelf life: 2, 3 years, ready-made suspension - less than 5 days.

Price: 190-530 rub.

• can be used for tonsillitis caused by different types of bacteria;
• effective;
• convenient reception mode and a fairly short course.

• reception is associated with eating;
• a large list of side reactions of the body;
• not for all ages;
• can not be taken for a long time.

Hexoral spray

• Release form: aerosol.
• Active ingredient: hexetidine, exhibits antimicrobial, antifungal action (especially against Candida), and is also active against viruses.
• Age limit: from 3 years old.

Side effects: urticaria, ageusia, cough, shortness of breath, nausea, dry mouth, tongue irritation, staining. They appear quite rarely.

Contraindications: erosion of the oral cavity, high sensitivity to components.

Shelf life: 3 years (after the first use - 6 months.)

Average price: about 300 rubles.

• has an effect on various pathogens of tonsillitis;
• has an analgesic effect;
• can be bought without a prescription;
• side effects rarely appear;
• convenient to use.

• is not an independent method of treatment, only as a means of symptomatic therapy;
• quite high price;
• not all consumers like the taste.

Ibuprofen

• Release form: tablets, suspension.
• Active ingredient: ibuprofen.
• Age limit: over 6 or 12 years old (depending on dosage).

Side effects: indigestion, pancreatitis, hepatitis, bronchospasm, hearing and visual impairment, dizziness, insomnia, nervousness, depression, drowsiness, tachycardia, high blood pressure, polyuria, cystitis, renal failure, anemia, allergic manifestations. According to the manufacturer, they occur most often when the dosage is violated.

Contraindications: erosion of the stomach and intestines, ulcerative colitis, allergic reactions to taking aspirin or NSAIDs, active liver disease, hepatic or renal failure, hyperkalemia, pregnancy, coagulation disorders. There is a large list of groups of individuals who should be careful when taking.

Expiration date: 3 years.

Average cost: 20-100 rubles.

• purchased without a prescription;
• has an antipyretic effect, relieves pain and inflammation;
• effective, action is time-tested;
• budget tablets.

• should not be given to small children, for other minors - only after a doctor's appointment;
• a large list of side effects;
• reception is possible only in a short course;
• acts only as a symptomatic treatment.

Grammidin

• Release form: lozenges, spray.
• Active ingredient: gramicidin C dihydrochloride (antimicrobial), cetylpyridinium chloride monohydrate (antiseptic) and oxybuprocaine hydrochloride (anesthetic).
• Age limit: from 4 years.

Side effects: Allergic manifestations or changes in the sensitivity of the tongue are possible.

Contraindications: pregnancy, hypersensitivity.

Expiration date: 2 years.

Cost: 250-350 rubles.

• has a complex healing effect and relieves pain, and not only softens the throat;
• a small list of contraindications and side effects;
• effective;
• acts quickly;
• has good reviews from consumers.

• has only an auxiliary effect;
• can not be used for babies;
• high price.

Decatilen

• Release form: lozenges.
• Active ingredient: dequalinium chloride (bactericidal, antifungal action), cinchocaine hydrochloride (pain relief).
  Age limit: over 4 years old.

Side effects: allergies, skin manifestations (unlikely).

Contraindications: high sensitivity to components.

Expiration date: 3 years.

Price: 1 200-1 300 rubles.

• has an antiviral effect, also affects fungi;
• relieves pain;
• does not contain sugar;
• no prescription needed;
• there are practically no side effects;
• dissolve for a long time.

• only an auxiliary agent as part of complex therapy;
• it is necessary to leave a gap between resorption and application of toothpaste;
• high price;
• there is no data on the possibility of use by pregnant women;
• should not be given to small children.

Paracetamol

• Release form: tablets.
• Active ingredient: paracetamol.
• Age limit: over 3 months.

Side effects: urticaria, thrombocytopenia, dyspepsia, leukopenia, pancytopenia, neutropenia. They are rare.

Contraindications: alcoholism, hypersensitivity. Use with caution in pregnant and lactating women, the elderly, patients with liver and kidney dysfunction.

Expiration date: 3 years.

Average price: 15-100 rubles.

• effective in reducing fever and relieving pain;
• low cost;
• side effects are rare;
• does not affect the gastric mucosa.

• can only be used as part of a comprehensive treatment;
• the anti-inflammatory effect is weak;
• cannot be combined with alcohol.

There are a large number of remedies for angina, some can act as the main method of influencing the disease, others only provide auxiliary support. It is better not to heal yourself, this can lead to serious consequences. The rating of sore throat remedies for 2024 will help you navigate the best drugs, weigh their pros and cons. However, the establishment of the duration of the course and dosage should be entrusted to the doctor.