Is the stuff you use more similar to Vick's or Ricqles?
Regular ones are gross. The flavored ones are candy.
Cepacol and Strepsils are pretty similar now. They used to be different lozenges taste and effect wise, but someone decided they wanted to change the formula in Strepsils. These two are way too potent for regular use IMO. The numbing aspect is nice when your throat is easily agitated though.
Has anyone ever tried pure honey pastilles? I don't really prefer them. Honey in hot water is pretty good for soothing a sore throat though.
The honey in hot water works really well - even better if you add a shot of whisky.