Title: Storage
Headings: Sore Throat Treatments and Medications
Sore Throat Treatments and Medications
What causes a sore throat?
When should you go to the doctor for a sore throat?
Questions to ask your doctor during your appointment:
Sore throat treatment options
Sore throat medicine
Over-the-counter medication
Prescription medication
What is the best medicine for a sore throat?
What are common side effects of sore throat medicine?
What are the best sore throat remedies?
Frequently asked questions about sore throats
How long does a sore throat last?
How do I get rid of a sore throat quickly?
Do I need antibiotics for a sore throat?
What is a natural remedy for throat infections?
Resources

Content: The best medication for your sore throat should be discussed with your doctor. A list of possible options may include: Best medications for a sore throat
Drug Name
Drug Class
OTC/Rx
Administration Route
Standard Dosage for Adults
How It Works
Most Common Side Effects
Tylenol (acetaminophen)
Analgesic/Antipyretic
OTC
Oral
325-650 mg tablet every 4-6 hours
Relieves pain and reduces fever
Nausea, abdominal pain, liver damage
Advil (ibuprofen)
NSAIDs
OTC
Oral
200-400 mg tablet every 4-6 hours
Relieves pain and reduces fever
Nausea, vomiting, increase in blood pressure
Bayer (aspirin)
NSAIDs
OTC
Oral
325-650 mg tablets every 4 hours
Relieves pain and reduces fever
Upset stomach, easy bleeding or bruising, stomach ulcer
Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine)
Nasal decongestant
OTC
Oral
60 mg tablet every 4-6 hours
Shrinks blood vessels in nasal cavity
Restlessness, high blood pressure, fast heart rate
Afrin (Oxymetazoline)
Nasal decongestant
OTC
Nasal spray
2-3 sprays in each nostril once or twice daily
Shrinks blood vessels in nasal cavity
Burning sensation, sneezing, nasal irritation
Cepacol (dyclonine)
Anesthetic for topical use
OTC
Lozenge
1 lozenge every 2 hours
Numbs throat
Mouth irritation, stinging
Chloraseptic (phenol)
Anesthetic
OTC
Throat spray
1 spray on affected area every 2 hours, hold for 15 seconds and spit out
Numbs throat
Nausea, mouth irritation
Penicillin V
Antibiotic
Prescription
Oral
500 mg tablet 2-3 times daily
Kills bacteria causing sore throat
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Amoxicillin
Antibiotic
Prescription
Oral
500 mg capsule every 12 hours
Kills bacteria causing sore throat
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Cephalexin (Keflex)
Antibiotic
Prescription
Oral
500 mg capsule every 12 hours
Kills bacteria causing sore throat
Diarrhea, indigestion, nausea
Cefadroxil
Antibiotic
Prescription
Oral
1000 mg capsule every 24 hours
Kills bacteria causing sore throat
Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea
A doctor will determine the best dosage for you based on your medical condition, response to sore throat treatment, age, and weight among other factors. Other side effects may occur. This is not a complete list. What are common side effects of sore throat medicine? Side effects for sore throat medicine are typically mild and may include: dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. When talking to your doctor, discuss all potential side effects and if there will be any interactions with other medications you may be taking. If you begin to have difficulty breathing or trouble swallowing after taking sore throat medication, see a doctor immediately.