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Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough

menthol / benzocaine / dextromethorphan
Used for Pain, Cough
Used for Pain, Cough

Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough is a brand of over-the-counter (OTC) lozenges that provide temporary relief from sore throat pain, mouth irritation, and cough caused by minor throat irritation, like from a cold. Each lozenge contains three active ingredients: menthol (to soothe and cool the throat), benzocaine (to numb pain), and dextromethorphan (to help stop coughing). The typical dose is 1 or 2 lozenges every 4 hours as needed. Most people tolerate it well, but side effects can include numbness in the mouth or throat.

Last reviewed on April 16, 2025
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What is Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough?

What is Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough used for?

Short-term relief of:

  • Minor irritation, pain, sore throat, and sore mouth

  • Cough caused by minor throat irritation, like from a cold

How Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough works

Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough is a combination of three medications.

Are you looking for information on Chloraseptic Warming Sore Throat (benzocaine) lozenges or Chloraseptic Sore Throat (phenol) spray instead?

Drug Facts

Drug ClassAnalgesic / Anesthetic / Cough Suppressant
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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Avg retail price
$00
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$8.00
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What are the side effects of Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Mouth and throat numbness

Other Side Effects

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, high fever, confusion
  • Serious blood problems (methemoglobinemia): seizure; loss of consciousness; trouble breathing; fast heart rate; confusion; feeling dizzy, faint, or tired; skin color turning blue or pale
  • Serious allergic reaction: swelling of the face, trouble breathing, throat tightening up, trouble speaking, red and itchy rash, lightheadedness, clammy skin

Source: DailyMed

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough

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Pros

Available over the counter

Conveniently combines three medications in a single dose

Helps with sore throat, cough, and mouth irritation

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Cons

Only provides temporary relief, so you might need to take it several times a day

Can cause mouth or throat numbness in some people

Can interact with certain medications

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough

pharmacist
  • Place the Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough lozenge in your mouth and let it melt slowly. As it melts, the medication coats your mouth and throat to help with pain. Don't chew the lozenge.

    • Stop taking Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough and call your primary care provider if your symptoms don't get better after a week or get worse. If your cough returns or comes with a high fever, rash, or headache, it could be something more serious.

      • Speak with your primary care provider if your sore throat lasts more than 2 days or is very painful. If you also have fever, rash, headache, swelling, nausea, or vomiting, it could be something that might require antibiotics.

        • Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough contains dextromethorphan, which might make you sleepy or dizzy. Don’t drive or use machines until you know how it affects you. Don't drive until you know how the medication affects you.

          • Tell your health care team about all the medications you're taking, especially if you're taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). You shouldn’t take Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough with an MAOI or within 2 weeks of stopping one — this could lead to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition.

            • Be careful when using Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough with other cold, cough, or allergy medications. Check labels to make sure you’re not taking another product with one of the active ingredients (dextromethorphan, benzocaine, or menthol). If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist for help.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough

              Why does Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough burn my throat?
              Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough contains menthol, which is found in mint plants and creates a cooling or tingling feeling. This sensation might feel like burning to some people, especially if your throat is already sore or irritated. If the burning is too uncomfortable, stop using the lozenge and contact your primary care provider for other treatment recommendations.
              What's the difference between Cepacol and Chloraseptic lozenges?
              Cepacol and Chloraseptic are both brands that make different sore throat and cough products. Each one can have different active ingredients and strengths, so it’s important to read the label carefully to make sure you're taking the right one. Talk to your pharmacist or primary care provider if you're not sure which product is right for you.
              How many Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough can you have in a day?
              How many Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough lozenges you can take depends on your age. Adults and children 12 years and older can take 2 lozenges every 4 hours, with a maximum of 12 lozenges per day. Children ages 6 to 12 can take 1 lozenge every 4 hours, with a maximum of 6 lozenges per day. You can take the lozenges as needed, which means you can use them less often if your symptoms aren’t as bad. Don't take more than the recommended amount unless a healthcare professional says it's safe for you to do so.
              Can you swallow Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough?
              No, you shouldn't swallow Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough lozenges whole. They're meant to dissolve slowly in your mouth so the medication can coat your throat and help relieve symptoms like pain and cough. Swallowing a lozenge whole might keep it from working the way it’s supposed to. Always follow the instructions on the package or ask your pharmacist if you're unsure how to take it.
              Are Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough lozenges safe during pregnancy?
              Don't take Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough until you've talked to your OB-GYN provider if you're pregnant. Studies show that dextromethorphan is generally safe in pregnancy. But it's not clear how safe menthol or benzocaine are since they haven't been well studied. You can also try other non-medication remedies, like gargling with salt water or drinking warm liquids, to help soothe a sore throat.
              Can I take Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough while breastfeeding?
              Although Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough hasn't been studied much in people who are breastfeeding, it's usually thought to be safe. The amount of medication that passes into breastmilk is likely very low. But be sure to talk with a healthcare professional if you have more questions.
              Are Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough sugar free?
              Yes. Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough comes in both sugar-free and non-sugar free versions.
              Does Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough expire?
              Yes, Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough does expire. Always check the expiration date on the product before you take it. Don't use the medication if it's expired because it might not work well to treat your symptoms.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough?

              Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Serotonin syndrome

              • Risk factors: Taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) 14 days before taking Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough | Taking other medications that raise serotonin levels in your brain

                Dextromethorphan in Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough can raise your risk of serotonin syndrome — a rare but serious condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain. Get medical help right away if you have symptoms like a fast heartbeat, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, high fever, or confusion.

                Your risk is higher if you're also taking other medications that affect serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants, MAOIs, and some migraine medications. Always tell your healthcare team about all medications and supplements you're taking so they can make sure Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough is safe to use with your other treatments.

                risk-warning

                Risk of serious blood problem (methemoglobinemia)

                • Risk factors: Young children | Older adults | Breathing problems | Heart problems

                  Benzocaine in Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough can cause a rare but serious condition known as methemoglobinemia. This happens when your blood can’t carry enough oxygen throughout your body. The risk is higher in young children, older adults, and people with heart or breathing problems.

                  Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include headache, confusion, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, tiredness, and pale, gray, or blue skin, lips, or nail beds.These can show up within minutes to a couple of hours hours after taking Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough. They can also develop after taking the lozenges for the first time or even if you’ve taken it before without any problems. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the medication and contact a healthcare professional right away.

                  risk-warning

                  Serious allergic reaction

                  Don't take Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to topical pain medications like procaine, bupivacaine, topical lidocaine, or other "caine" anesthetics. Watch out for signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, such as hives, shortness of breath, swelling of your face, lips, or throat. Get medical attention right away if you have these signs and symptoms.

                  risk-warning

                  Accidental overdose

                  • Risk factors: Taking other medications with dextromethorphan

                    Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough contains menthol, benzocaine, and dextromethorphan, which are also found in many other over-the-counter (OTC) products.

                    Taking more than one product containing dextromethorphan can lead to side effects or even an accidental overdose. These serious side effects can include seizures, hallucinations, heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, and even fainting.

                    To avoid overdose, always read package labels carefully. If you're unsure if a product has any similar ingredients, ask your pharmacist. If you or your child might have taken too much, get medical help as soon as possible or call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

                    dosage

                    Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough dosage forms

                    The average cost for 1 carton of 15 lozenges of 6mg/5mg/10mg of Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough is $8.00 with a free GoodRx coupon.0
                    carton
                    Carton
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    15 lozenges of 6mg/5mg/10mg1 carton$8.00$8.00

                    Typical dosing for Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough

                    Each lozenge contains 10 mg of menthol, 6 mg of benzocaine, and 5 mg of dextromethorphan.

                    • Adults and children over 12 years old: The typical dose is 2 lozenges dissolved in the mouth every 4 hours as needed. Don't use more than 12 lozenges in a 24-hour period.

                    • Children 6 to 12 years old: The typical dose is 1 lozenge dissolved in the mouth every 4 hours as needed. Don't use more than 6 lozenges in a 24-hour period.

                    • Children under 6 years old: Ask your child's provider.

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                    How much does Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough cost?

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                    Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough (brand)
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                    Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough will not be safe for you to take.
                    • Currently take or have taken an MAOI in the last 2 weeks

                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Chloraseptic Total Sore Throat And Cough
                    Used for:

                    Short-term relief of:

                    • Minor irritation, pain, sore throat, and sore mouth

                    • Cough caused by minor throat irritation, like from a cold

                    $8.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Used for:
                    • Sore mouth and throat

                    • Mouth and throat pain

                    • Mouth irritation

                    $5.36 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Used for:
                    • Minor irritation in the mouth

                    • Sore throat or mouth

                    • Cough

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Folan, P., et al. (2017). What is menthol? American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

                    Li, Z., et al. (2022). The distinctive role of menthol in pain and analgesia: Mechanisms, practices, and advances. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience.

                    Ludlow, J. T., et al. (2023). Methemoglobinemia. StatPearls.

                    View All References (5)
                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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