Sore Throats and Antibiotics
Key Information
The Right Tool for the Job: To treat a problem correctly, we must use the right tool. If you had a burst pipe, you wouldn't call a firefighter.
Viruses vs. Bacteria: More than 90% of sore throats are caused by viruses (the "burst pipe"). Antibiotics are "firefighters", specialist tools designed only to fight bacterial infections (the "fire").
Why We Are Careful: Antibiotics have zero effect on viruses. Using them when not needed won't make you better faster, but it can cause side effects (like rashes or stomach upsets) and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
The Real Expert: For a viral sore throat, the expert is your own immune system. Our role is to support it with rest, fluids, and painkillers while it fixes the problem.
What Happens Next?
If you have a standard sore throat, the best plan is to use the "Soothing Toolkit" (painkillers, hydration, rest) to manage symptoms while your body recovers. We only prescribe antibiotics when there are clear signs of a bacterial infection where the medication will make a difference.
When to Contact Us
While most sore throats resolve without antibiotics, please contact us at the link below if:
- Duration: Your symptoms have lasted longer than one week with no sign of improvement.
- Severity: You feel very unwell, or the pain is severe and not helped by painkillers.
- Swallowing: You are unable to swallow fluids.
Further Information
How to Look After Sore Throats at Home
Sore Throats and Delayed Antibiotics
For more advice on sore throats, please visit the NHS website.
Last reviewed: 27 April 2026
Next review due: 27 April 2029
Page created: 27 April 2026