NHS Pharmacy First · Sore throat
Sore throat? See a pharmacist today.
If you’re 5 or over, our pharmacist can look at your sore throat, tell you whether it needs treatment, and give you that treatment on the NHS. No GP appointment needed.
- Age 5 and over
- Free consultation
- About 15 minutes
- Walk in, or book
Can I use Pharmacy First for sore throat?
Yes, if
- You’re 5 or older
- Your sore throat started recently
Not covered
- Children under 5
- A sore throat that has lasted more than 2 weeks, or keeps coming back
- You have a weakened immune system, for example from chemotherapy
Not covered? Come in anyway if you’d like advice. Our pharmacist will help where they can, and tell you who to see if they can’t.
Symptoms
- a sore or painful throat, worse when you swallow
- a high temperature
- swollen glands in your neck
- white spots or pus on your tonsils
- a hoarse or croaky voice
What happens when you come in
Walk in, or book a time
Ask at the counter for Pharmacy First. You don’t need to see your GP first.
A private chat with the pharmacist
The pharmacist asks about your symptoms and may look at your throat. They use a simple score called FeverPAIN to judge whether a bacterial infection is likely.
Advice, and treatment if you need it
The pharmacist explains what they think is going on and what will help. Any medicine they give you is supplied on the NHS.
We let your GP know
A short note goes to your GP surgery, so your record is up to date. If you need to see a doctor, we’ll tell you.
What treatment might I get?
Most sore throats are caused by viruses and get better on their own within a week. Antibiotics don’t help with viruses, and can cause side effects.
The pharmacist will suggest what will ease it, such as painkillers, lozenges or a throat spray.
If a bacterial infection is likely, they may offer you antibiotics on the NHS.
Looking after yourself
- Drink plenty of water, and eat cool or soft food
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for the pain (check the dose for children)
- Adults can gargle with warm salty water (not for children)
- Suck lozenges, ice cubes or hard sweets (not for young children)
- Rest, and avoid smoking or smoky places
What it costs
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist gives you a medicine, you pay the usual NHS prescription charge for it, unless you get free prescriptions (for example if you’re under 16, 60 or over, pregnant, or get certain benefits). Check if you get free prescriptions.
Questions people ask
Will I get antibiotics?
Only if they’re likely to help. Most sore throats are viral and clear up within a week, and antibiotics won’t make them go faster. The pharmacist will explain their reasons either way.
Can you see my child?
Yes, if they’re 5 or older. Please come with them. For children under 5, contact your GP or NHS 111.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Walk in any time we’re open and ask for Pharmacy First. If you’d rather not wait, book a time online. GP surgeries and NHS 111 can also send you to us.
How long does it take?
About 15 minutes with the pharmacist. If they’re with someone else, you may have a short wait.
Will my GP know?
Yes. We send a short note to your GP surgery afterwards, so your medical record stays up to date.
Is it private?
Yes. You’ll be seen in our private consultation room.
What should I bring?
A list of any medicines you take, including ones you buy yourself. Children under 16 should come with a parent or guardian.
Ready to be seen?
Walk in any time we’re open: Monday to Saturday, 8:00am to 10:30pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 10:30pm. Or book a time and skip the wait.