A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EFFICACY OF 2% POVIDONE-IODINE VERSUS 0.15% BENZYDAMINE TOPICAL GARGLES IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC PHARYNGITIS

Background: Chronic pharyngitis, often associated to Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD), presents significant therapeutic challenges. Objective: To compare the clinical efficacy of 2% w/v Povidone-Iodine (PI) and 0.15% w/v Benzydamine Hydrochloride (BZ) gargles in patients with chronic pharyngitis secondary to LPRD/GERD. Methods: This prospective, randomized, open-label study compared the efficacy of PI and BZ topical gargles, combined with Omeprazole (20 mg) and Cinitapride (3 mg) once daily orally. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at baseline, day 15, and day 30. Results: Both groups exhibited significant improvement (p<0.05) in RSI and VAS scores over 30 days. BZ group showed effective pain reduction (VAS: 0.48±0.58 vs. 0.62±0.70; *p=0.014) and higher rates of complete pain resolution (56% vs. 50%) compared to PI group. PI achieved 100% resolution in reflux-associated symptoms (heartburn, postprandial cough), while BZ mainly improved neurogenic symptoms (globus sensation: 96.9% vs. 90%; hoarseness of voice: 92% vs. 78.3%). However, composite RSI reduction was comparable (BZ: 85.6% vs. PI: 82.8%; *p=0.095). Conclusion: This study concludes that BZ rapid analgesic effect makes it ideal option for immediate symptom management, whereas PI antimicrobial property may help in reflux- dominant cases. Both PI and BZ gargles, when combined with anti-reflux medications, are effective in relieving chronic pharyngitis symptoms associated with LPRD/GERD – supported by lifestyle modifications. These observations suggest the importance of personalized treatment strategies in the management of chronic pharyngitis.