Do you need antibiotics for a sore-throat?September 14, 2025
Combat a viral sore throat safely and effectively. From the comfort of warm salt water gargles and throat lozenges to the importance of hydration and rest, these simple remedies provide relief without contributing to the global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A low-dose topical NSAID, such as flurbiprofen, can also help manage pain.
Sore throats are very common! Antibiotics are often used when they're not needed. This can lead to a major global issue: "Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)."
What causes a sore throat? Presenting "Treatment of acute sore throat in Malaysia: A consensus of multidisciplinary recommendations using modified Delphi methodology" at Strepsils' "Resist Resistance" campaign, Professor Dr Baharudin Abdullah from the Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Universiti Sains Malaysia explains that sore throats are most often caused by viral infections (like the flu or cold), while some are bacterial (especially Group A Streptococcus). Others can be due to allergies, smoke, or dry air. Not all sore throats need antibiotics. Challenges in treating sore throat Sore throat is a distressing condition, with 70% of patients experiencing moderate to severe pain. Differentiation between viral, bacterial, and non-infectious causes (such as allergies and irritants) of sore throat is not easy. It often results in "overtreatment or undertreatment." Diagnosis relies on physical examination and symptom assessment. Definitive guidance on symptom management and potential complications is necessary. What Is antimicrobial resistance (AMR)? AMR occurs when bacteria become stronger and resist antibiotics, leading to longer illnesses, more hospital visits, and even death. By 2050, AMR could cause 10 million deaths per year. The problem increases with antibiotic "abuse and overuse." Since 80% of sore throats are non-bacterial, antibiotics are not necessary. The concern is real: antibiotic misuse or overuse for sore throats in primary care is alarming, with studies showing that while 42.9% of antibiotics prescribed for acute pharyngitis were appropriate, 58.5% were overprescribed. A simple solution: The McIsaac Score Healthcare professionals now have a valuable tool to combat this issue. The McIsaac Score is a checklist where antibiotics should only be prescribed for suspected or proven bacterial infections with a score greater than 3. Doctors use this scoring system to help make informed decisions:
Effective symptomatic treatment for viral infections For viral sore throats, several effective treatments can provide relief without contributing to AMR:
The message is clear: not all sore throats need antibiotics, and using them wrongly fuels AMR. Symptom relief such as flurbiprofen spray is safe and effective. By preserving antibiotics for when they're really needed, we can all play a part in combating antimicrobial resistance and protecting these life-saving medications for future generations. |
EXPLORE FURTHER
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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR): The next global and public health threat after COVID-19
The adverse effects of overprescribing antibiotics
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The bacterial threat as a result of antibiotic misuse10 million deaths from AMR projected by 2050, surpassing cancer
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