Antibiotics for sore throats: when do they make sense?

Antibiotics are an important weapon against bacterial infections, but they should be used sparingly. Many people are quick to reach for antibiotics when they have a sore throat, despite them often being ineffective.

Most sore throats are caused by viruses, such as those responsible for colds or the flu. However, antibiotics fight bacteria, not viruses. Using them unnecessarily can cause side effects such as diarrhoea, fungal infections or allergic reactions. Additionally, overuse encourages the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and this jeopardises the long-term effectiveness of these medications.

Antibiotic treatment may be useful for bacterial infections such as strep throat. Typical symptoms include a high temperature, severe difficulty swallowing, purulent throat coating and swollen lymph nodes. A doctor can run a quick test to determine whether a bacterial infection is present.

Antibiotics should only be taken after consulting a doctor. By using antibiotics only when truly necessary, you protect not only yourself but also the wider community from resistant bacteria.