Sore Throat
NHS Pharmacy First assessment and treatment for sore throat (acute sore throat/tonsillitis) in patients aged 5 years and over. Sore throat, painful swallowing, swollen glands and fever.
Can a pharmacist treat a sore throat?
Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First Service, our pharmacists can assess eligible patients aged 5 years and over with symptoms of an acute sore throat or tonsillitis. Following assessment, we can provide advice, supply NHS treatment where appropriate, or refer you if further medical assessment is required.
Do I need a GP appointment?
No. Eligible patients can usually be assessed directly through the NHS Pharmacy First Service without needing to see a GP first.
Will I need antibiotics?
Not always. Most sore throats are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. Our pharmacists use nationally approved clinical assessment tools to determine whether antibiotics are likely to be beneficial.
How long does a sore throat last?
Most sore throats improve within 7 to 10 days with rest, fluids and pain relief. Symptoms should gradually improve over this time.
When should I seek urgent medical advice?
Seek urgent medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, are unable to swallow saliva, develop severe swelling of the neck or throat, have persistent high fever, become confused, or are seriously unwell.
Pharmacy First Sore Throat Assessment – Adults and Children (5 years and over)
Are you suffering from a sore throat or pain when swallowing? Our NHS Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service provides assessment and treatment for eligible patients aged 5 years and over, without needing a GP appointment.
Our pharmacists use nationally approved clinical assessment tools to determine whether antibiotics are appropriate or whether self-care is the best treatment.
Common symptoms of a sore throat include:
Sore throat
Pain when swallowing
Red or inflamed throat
Swollen tonsils
White spots or pus on the tonsils
Swollen glands in the neck
Fever (high temperature)
Headache
Feeling generally unwell
Bad breath
Loss of appetite
Most sore throats are caused by viral infections and improve within 7 to 10 days without antibiotics. Some bacterial throat infections may benefit from antibiotic treatment following assessment.
Who can use this service?
Patients aged 5 years and over
Face-to-face consultation only
Available through the NHS Pharmacy First Service
Our experienced pharmacists can assess your symptoms, advise on the most appropriate treatment, supply NHS medicines where appropriate, or refer you to your GP or hospital if further assessment is required.
