My brother is about to begin week 3 of rad and already his mouth and throat are fried. Nothing eases the dry burning pain in his mouth and throat. Lips are also dry and painful. Every day he eats less. Swallowing is extremely difficult. If it is this bad now I am not sure he will complete his treatment. He seems to think quitting is an option.

He drinks constantly, uses Biotene and rinses with the water, baking soda and salt solution. So far his diet has consisted of soups, very moist casseroles and mashed potatoes and gravy. Today he could not even handle these.

He has spoken with his RO and ENT about this but they tell him to continue using the Biotene. Are there meds his doctor could prescribe? Are prescription pain meds like codeine or hydrocodone effective in relieving the pain and burning?