What should you know about pharyngitis antibiotics?

A sore throat, fever, swollen glands or tonsil coating can occur in both viral and bacterial illness. Antibiotics do not shorten every sore throat and can cause unwanted effects, including stomach upset, rash or an allergic reaction. Taking them when they are not indicated can also make future infections harder to treat. Do not use medicine prescribed for another person.

If antibiotics are prescribed, follow the clinician’s directions and complete the prescribed course unless you are told to stop or change it. Ask what to do if you miss a dose. Keep taking fluids and use suitable supportive care for pain. Tell the prescriber about medicine allergies, pregnancy, kidney or liver problems, and regular medicines. Contact the clinic if symptoms are not improving or side effects develop.

Get emergency help for breathing difficulty, swelling of the lips or tongue, faintness, or inability to swallow saliva. Seek prompt review for a widespread rash, severe diarrhoea, dehydration, worsening one-sided throat pain or a muffled voice. A clinician should reassess symptoms that persist after the prescribed treatment.

Ask what cause is suspected, whether testing is needed, how to take the medicine, which side effects need help, and when you can return to work or school without exposing others.