Lozenges are solid preparations that contain one or more medicaments, usually in a flavored, sweetened base, and that are intended to dissolve or disintegrate slowly in the mouth. They can be prepared by molding (gelatin and/or fused sucrose and sorbitol base) or by compression of sugar-based tablets. Molded lozenges are sometimes referred to as pastilles, whereas compressed lozenges may be referred to as troches. They are intended to be allowed to dissolve on the back surface of the tongue to provide drug delivery locally to the mouth, tongue, throat, etc., to minimize systemic and maximize local drug activity.

The USP1 currently recognizes Cetylpyridinium Chloride Lozenges and Nystatin Lozenges. However, more than five dozen over-the-counter (OTC) lozenge products are currently marketed.2 These contain a variety of active ingredients including antimicrobials and local anesthetics for throat pain; aromatics, herbals, zinc salts, decongestants, and cough suppressants for colds, allergy, cough, and congestion; and nicotine-like substances for smoking cessation.