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Pharyngitis Treatment: Antibiotics for Bacterial Cases and Supportive Measures with Ibuprofen and Gargles

Image of a middle-aged Hispanic physician in a modern medical office, featuring a poster that illustrates the human throat with bacterial infection and supportive measures such as hydration and rest. The desk is adorned with medical books and a throat model, emphasizing the focus on pharyngitis treatment, including penicillin, ibuprofen, gargles, and viral differentiation.

Dear colleagues, pharyngitis is one of the most common consultations in daily clinical practice. While the majority of cases are of viral origin, a significant percentage is caused by bacterial infections, primarily due to Group A Streptococcus. Correct identification and treatment of these cases are crucial to prevent complications and promote a rapid and effective recovery.

Diving into Pharyngitis Treatment

The treatment of bacterial pharyngitis focuses on the use of appropriate antibiotics. Penicillin remains the treatment of choice due to its proven efficacy and narrow spectrum of action, which minimizes the risk of bacterial resistance. In patients allergic to penicillin, alternatives such as clindamycin or macrolides may be considered.

In addition to antibiotic treatment, supportive measures are fundamental for managing pharyngitis. These include the use of ibuprofen for pain and inflammation relief, as well as gargles with saline solutions to alleviate local discomfort. Adequate hydration is essential to keep the pharyngeal mucosa moist and facilitate recovery.

It is important to differentiate between viral and bacterial pharyngitis to avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics. Tools such as the McIsaac scoring system can be useful in guiding clinical decision-making in this regard.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the management of pharyngitis requires a balanced approach between the use of antibiotics in bacterial cases and the implementation of supportive measures for all patients. Viral differentiation is key to avoiding the excessive use of antibiotics and its associated consequences. Staying updated with clinical guidelines and best practices is essential to provide high-quality care to our patients.

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Created 4/1/2025