These treatments include Anesthetics Protective coatings Corticosteroids Physical measures (eg, cautery) For topical anesthesia of discomfort that may interfere with eating and drinking, the following may be effective: Lidocaine rinse Sucralfate plus aluminum-magnesium antacid rinse A 2-minute rinse is done with 15 mL 2% viscous lidocaine every 3 hours as needed; patient expectorates when done (no rinsing with water and no swallowing unless the pharynx is involved).