Lozenge vs. Troche — What's the Difference?

Lozenges are commonly used to relieve symptoms of sore throats, coughs, or nasal congestion. They are designed to dissolve slowly in the mouth, releasing medication gradually. On the other hand, troches are a specialized form of lozenge used more specifically in medical treatments, such as hormone therapies or antifungal medications, and are designed to ensure that the medication is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes.

Lozenges are available over the counter and are often used for mild throat irritation or dryness. They come in various flavors and may contain ingredients like menthol, eucalyptus, or honey. Whereas troches might require a prescription and are formulated to deliver a specific dosage of medication, making them part of a targeted therapy.

The composition of lozenges is generally geared towards soothing irritation with mild astringent or antiseptic properties. This makes them suitable for general use by the public without the need for medical supervision. In contrast, troches can contain potent drugs and are therefore used under medical advice for conditions such as yeast infections or hormone replacement therapy.

While lozenges are typically used for relief from symptoms of colds or allergies, troches are employed in more clinical settings, where precise dosing and specific drug delivery are crucial. This difference underlines their use in different contexts of health care.

The method of use between the two is quite similar—both are held in the mouth until they dissolve. However, the intention behind their use highlights the primary distinction: lozenges for symptom relief in everyday ailments and troches for specific, often more serious, medical conditions.