What is the best antibiotic for a sore throat?
No antibiotic. Most sore throats do NOT need antibiotics, and will get better on their own.
Sore throat – is a common symptom of many illnesses, including viral ones (e.g. colds, flu and COVID-19) and bacterial ones (including ‘strep throat’).
Most sore throats – are caused by a virus – for which antibiotics have no effect.
If a sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection – such as strep throat (caused by ‘Strep A’), antibiotics may be useful.
Strep A causing a tonsillitis, with red swollen tonsils and pus in them. Most sore throats do not look like this.
Not all cases of Strep A require antibiotics. If they do, penicillin or amoxicillin are a good choice.
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Last Reviewed on 20 April 2024