Cough drops are medicated lozenges that come in a variety of flavors and are used to soothe coughing or ease the pain of a sore throat. They work by providing a cooling feeling and increasing saliva in the mouth, which can help reduce coughing. Cough drops contain different ingredients, such as menthol, benzocaine, phenol, and dextromethorphan, that can help suppress coughs, ease minor aches and pains, and relieve oral discomfort linked to sore throat, cold sores, and fever blisters. The act of sucking on a cough drop can provide multiple benefits, such as suppressing the cough reflex temporarily, soothing and moistening an irritated throat, and numbing pain and irritation. However, cough drops are not a cure for coughs or sore throats caused by viral or bacterial infections, but they can make it easier to tolerate the recovery process as the body fights off infection. Its important to note that cough drops are not recommended for children under the age of four due to the risk of choking. Additionally, excessive use of cough drops, especially those containing menthol, may actually make coughs more severe. If you have a sore throat that is severe or lasts more than two days, or a cough that lasts more than seven days or keeps coming back, or symptoms occur with a fever, headache, rash, swelling, nausea, or vomiting, its important to tell your doctor promptly.