- 45 South Street, Lancing, BN15 8AN
- Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00 · Sat 09:00–13:00
- 01903 752191
- Delivery Available
Advice and NHS-funded treatment for sore throat for those aged 5 years and above through the Pharmacy First Service.
A sore throat is a common condition, usually caused by a viral infection such as a cold. It can make your throat feel painful, scratchy or irritated, and it may be difficult or uncomfortable to swallow.
We offer a free advice and treatment service through the NHS Pharmacy First Service for those aged 5 years and above, without the need to see your GP.
Our pharmacists will assess your symptoms and check your suitability for treatment. If your symptoms suggest a more serious condition, you may be referred to your GP or another service for further assessment and treatment.
A sore throat is pain, irritation or scratchiness in the throat. It is most often caused by a viral infection, such as a cold, and usually gets better on its own within a week. Sore throats can also be caused by bacterial infections, allergies or irritants such as smoke or pollution.
Through the Pharmacy First Service, we can offer advice and treatment for eligible patients with sore throat.
Sore throat can cause a range of symptoms, which may develop after a cold or other upper respiratory infection.
The main signs and symptoms include:
A pharmacist will assess your symptoms during a consultation. If it is clinically appropriate and you are eligible through the NHS Pharmacy First service, treatment may be offered to you for sore throat. The available treatment options include:
If you are not eligible for treatment through the Pharmacy First Service or the available treatments are not appropriate for you, the pharmacist may recommend an alternative treatment option or sign-post you to another service.
If your symptoms are severe, you have difficulty breathing, or are unable to swallow, seek medical help immediately.
Visit the NHS.uk webpage for up-to-date advice and information on sore throat.
The service is available to anyone aged 5 years and above who has symptoms of a sore throat.
Your pharmacist will check your suitability and eligibility during your consultation. If your symptoms suggest a more serious condition, you may be referred to your GP or another service.
A pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them and any medical conditions or medicines you take. They may also check your throat and temperature.
If treatment is clinically appropriate, the pharmacist will explain the available options. Otherwise, they may offer advice or sign-post you to another service.
The consultation is free through the NHS Pharmacy First Service.
If you are issued a prescription medicine, you will pay the standard NHS prescription charge unless you’re eligible for free prescriptions.
Most sore throats get better within a week. Pain relief can help ease discomfort and reduce a high temperature.
If you are given antibiotics, follow the pharmacist’s advice and complete the full course, even if you start to feel better.
If your symptoms get worse or are not improving after a week, speak to your GP or call NHS 111. If you have difficulty breathing or are unable to swallow, seek medical help immediately.
