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Viral Pharyngitis Treatments

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of the sore throat. Treatment options include:

Medications

  • Antibiotics for strep throat
  • Drugs to reduce sore throat pain; these drugs include:
    • Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
    • Aspirin (not recommended for children with a current or recent viral infection; check with your child's doctor before giving a child aspirin)
  • Numbing throat spray for pain control
  • Decongestants and antihistamines to relieve nasal congestion and runny nose
  • Vitamin C (if recommended by your doctor)
  • Throat lozenges

Home Care

  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Gargle with warm salt water several times a day.
  • Drink warm liquids (tea or broth) or cool liquids.
  • Avoid irritants that might affect your throat, such as smoke from cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and cold air.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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