Sore Throat Medicine & Treatment Options in Australia

Painful, scratchy throat making it hard to swallow?

Get relief with the right throat lozenges, sprays, or pain relievers for your sore throat.

Pediatric Dosage Calculator

Estimate Paracetamol & Ibuprofen doses

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Important Disclaimer: This is an estimate only based on standard concentrations. ALWAYS check the concentration on your specific bottle as brands vary. Do not use Ibuprofen for children under 3 months or with asthma/chickenpox unless advised by a doctor.

Treatment & Relief Options

Throat lozenges or sprays with local anaesthetic
Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and inflammation
Gargle with warm salt water
Stay hydrated with warm fluids
Rest your voice

When to Seek Medical Help

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Drooling, unable to swallow saliva, muffled voice, or severe one-sided pain (peritonsillar abscess risk—seek urgent assessment same day)
• High fever with severe throat pain
• Rash accompanying sore throat
• Symptoms lasting more than a week

How it works

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sore Throat

Do I need antibiotics for a sore throat?

Most are viral and don't need antibiotics. Strep throat (bacterial) does.

What's the best sore throat remedy?

Lozenges with anaesthetic (benzocaine) provide quick relief. Ibuprofen reduces inflammation.

How long does a sore throat last?

Viral: 3-7 days. Bacterial (strep): needs antibiotics, improves in 24-48 hours.

Can I use throat spray and lozenges together?

Yes, but space them out and don't exceed recommended doses.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have white patches, difficulty breathing, or symptoms beyond a week.

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Last reviewed: November 2025

Reviewer: Healthcare Content Team

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.