Pharmacist advice
Sore throat
Most sore throats are viral and settle in a few days. Pain relief and fluids are the usual care. This page does not test for strep throat or start an antibiotic.
A pharmacist cannot prescribe for this from this page.
What usually helps
- Warm or cold fluids, and throat lozenges for older children and adults.
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, at a dose a pharmacist confirms.
Talk to a pharmacist first
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- The person is under 12, unless the note below gives a different age.
- You take other medicines, or you have a long-term condition.
- A very painful throat, trouble swallowing, or symptoms that are not improving after two days.
See a doctor or call 911
- Drooling, trouble breathing, or a muffled voice.
- A rash, neck swelling, or a fever with severe pain.
- Call 911 for trouble breathing or if the person cannot swallow their own saliva.
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Reviewed by a BC pharmacist.