NHS-contracted pharmacy · GPhC registered · Two branches in Plaistow
Sore Throat
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Sore Throat Treatment in Barking Road
A bad sore throat can knock you out for days, swallowing hurts, you can’t sleep, and you’re wondering whether you need antibiotics. The good news is you don’t need a GP appointment to find out. At Newmans Pharmacy on Barking Road, Plaistow, our pharmacists can assess sore throats under the NHS Pharmacy First service for free, for adults and children aged 5 and over.
Most sore throats are viral and clear up on their own. But some particularly bacterial throat infections like strep throat benefit from antibiotics. We’ll use the clinical FeverPAIN or Centor scoring system to decide.
When to See Us for a Sore Throat
Consider walking in if you have:
- A sore throat that’s severe or getting worse
- High temperature (fever)
- Pus or white spots on your tonsils
- Swollen, tender glands in your neck
- Absence of a cough (more suggestive of bacterial infection)
How We Decide on Antibiotics
NHS guidance uses the FeverPAIN scoring tool to decide whether antibiotics are likely to help. Our pharmacist will check for:
- Fever in the last 24 hours
- Pus on the tonsils
- Symptoms starting quickly (within 3 days)
- Inflamed tonsils
- No cough or runny nose
A high score means bacterial infection is more likely and antibiotics may be appropriate. A low score means it’s probably viral antibiotics won’t help and may cause side effects.
Self-Care That Actually Helps
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever
- Plenty of cool fluids
- Salt water gargles (adults only)
- Throat lozenges containing a local anaesthetic
- Avoid smoking and smoky environments
Book An Appointment
Private Clinical Consultation
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Our Branches in Plaistow
- Name :- Newmans Pharmacy (Abbey Arms)
- +44 20 7476 1326
- newmans.pharmacy@nhs.net
- Newmans Pharmacy - 376 Barking Road London E13 8HL
- Name :- Newmans Pharmacy (Greengate)
- +44 20 8472 5054
- newmans1.pharmacy@nhs.net
- Newmans Pharmacy - 524-526 Barking Road London E13 8QE
Frequently Asked Question
My child has a sore throat. Can I bring them?
Yes, from age 5 and over. Under 5s need a GP.
When does a sore throat become tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils specifically. We can assess and treat it under Pharmacy First using the same scoring system.
How long does a sore throat usually last?
Most clear up in a week. If yours is longer or getting worse, see us.
Can the pharmacy provide antibiotics for a sore throat?
Yes. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, our pharmacists can assess patients aged 5 years and over for a sore throat. We use a clinical scoring system (like the FeverPAIN or Centor criteria) to determine if your infection is likely bacterial. If it is, we can provide the appropriate antibiotics directly without a GP prescription.
How do I know if my sore throat is serious enough to visit the pharmacy?
Most sore throats are viral and clear up within a week. However, you should come in for a consultation if:
Your symptoms have lasted longer than one week.
You have a high fever or feel shivery.
You have difficulty swallowing or are drooling.
You notice white pus-filled spots (exudate) on your tonsils at the back of your throat.
Quick Links
Pharmacy Info
- GPhC Registration Number: See branch pages
- Limited Company Registration No: 04621634
- Superintendent pharmacist: Seetal Patel (GPhC No. 2048321)
Our Stores
Opening Hours
(376 - Abbey Arms)
- Mon - Fri : 09:00 - 18:00
- Sat : 09:00 - 05:30
- Sun : Closed
Opening Hours
(524-526 - Greengate)
- Mon - Fri : 09:00 - 18:30
- Sat : 09:00 - 05:30
- Sun : Closed