People of all ages sometimes need to use antibiotics to treat sore throats. But do all sore throats require antibiotics? What is the difference between bacterial and viral infections? What is the best antibiotic for sore throat in terms of cost, ingredients, and doses? We will provide answers to these questions through the Dalili Medical website and more in the following lines.

**What is sore throat?**

 

Sore throat is a condition characterized by inflammation and pain that can affect the throat, pharynx, larynx, or tonsils. This inflammation may be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, and can affect people of all ages, including men, women, and children. Viral infections are usually transmitted through the air through coughing or sneezing, or as a result of unhealthy habits, while bacterial infections are caused by bacteria known as Streptococcus. Common symptoms of this inflammation include pain, redness of the throat, and bad breath.

**How ​​can you tell the difference between a sore throat caused by a viral or bacterial infection?**

 

There is a difference between a sore throat caused by a viral infection and a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection. Viral infections are the most common, especially among the elderly, and often do not respond to antibiotic treatment. In contrast, bacterial infections respond effectively to antibiotics. Below we will explain the differences between the two types.

**Signs of sore throat caused by a bacterial infection:**

 

- Body temperature rises to more than 38 degrees Celsius.

- No cough.

- The appearance of white secretions in the throat or tonsils.

- Feeling pain when pressing on the neck due to swollen lymph nodes.

**Signs of sore throat caused by a viral infection:**

- Cough.

- Hoarseness in the voice.

- Runny nose.

- Chest pain due to coughing.

What is the difference between viral sore throat and bacterial sore throat?

 

**Viral sore throat**

It occurs as a result of a viral infection, and some symptoms appear such as:

- Swelling of the throat and tonsils.

- Noticeable redness in the throat without pus.

- Runny or stuffy nose.

- Body aches.

- Cough.

Symptoms usually disappear on their own within a few days, but some medications can be used to relieve these symptoms, including:

- Gargling with mouthwash or salt water.

- Taking painkillers and anti-inflammatories.

- Using lozenges to facilitate swallowing and relieve pain.

**Bacterial sore throat**

It occurs as a result of a bacterial infection, and is accompanied by a group of symptoms, including:

- Swelling of the tonsils and their appearance in red with clear white spots.

- Fever.

- Swollen lymph nodes.

- Headache.

To treat bacterial sore throat, the patient needs to take the appropriate antibiotics according to the specific type, and the full dose must be adhered to even if the patient feels better after taking a number of doses.

**Complications of bacterial sore throat**

Although bacterial sore throat can be easily treated, leaving it untreated may in some cases lead to complications in the patient. These complications include:

- Transmission of the infection to the blood (sepsis) or to the skin or ear.

- Bacterial sinusitis.

- Rheumatic fever.

- Formation of an abscess around the tonsils.

- Glomerulonephritis resulting from streptococcal infection.

- Guttate psoriasis, a type of psoriasis that is common among children.

**Best antibiotic for treating bacterial sore throat**

In this article, we will review the most prominent antibiotics available to treat bacterial sore throat, focusing on prices, ingredients, and recommended doses for adults and children.

**- Augmentin antibiotic**

**Augmentin 1 gram ingredients:**

- **Amoxicillin:** is an active substance that belongs to the class of antibiotics known as penicillins, and works to eliminate bacteria that cause infection and inflammation by inhibiting the formation of the cell wall.

- **Clavulanic acid:** is an active substance classified as a beta-lactamase inhibitor, which helps reduce bacterial resistance to antibiotics, thus enhancing the effectiveness of treatment.

**Augmentin dosage as an antibiotic:**

Augmentin is one of the most common antibiotics for treating sore throat, and the dose is determined based on the health condition and age of the patient. Here are the usual doses:

**For children under 3 months:** 30 mg is given for every 1 kg of the child's weight, and the total dose is divided into two times within 24 hours (a dose every 12 hours).

**For children 3 months and older:** 25-45 mg per 1 kg of the child's weight can be given, and the total dose is divided into two doses within 24 hours (a dose every 12 hours), or 20-40 mg per 1 kg of body weight, and the total dose is divided into 3 doses at a rate of a dose every 8 hours.

**As for children weighing more than 40 kg:** The same dose designated for adults can be used.

**For adults:** It is recommended to take one tablet every 12 hours at a concentration of 1 g, or one tablet every 8-12 hours at a concentration of 625 mg

Hi-Biotech 1 gm components:

Hi-Biotech, an antibiotic used to treat sore throat, contains:

- **Amoxicillin**: It is an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin class, and works to eliminate bacteria by affecting the structure of their cell wall.

- **Clavulanic acid**: An active ingredient that helps reduce bacterial resistance to antibiotics, which enhances the effectiveness of these drugs in fighting infections

**Hi-Biotech antibiotic dose**

The dose is determined based on the severity of the infection and the patient's age. Commonly used doses include:

- **For adults**: One tablet every 12 hours at a concentration of 1 gram.

- **For children over 12 years**: One tablet can be taken up to 3 times daily at a concentration of 375 mg, or two tablets daily at a concentration of 625 mg.

- **For children from 2 to 4Years**: The dose is 2.5-5 ml twice daily of hibiotic 228.

- **For children from 5 to 6 years**: The dose is 5 ml twice daily of hibiotic N 457, and for children from 7 to 12 years the dose is 6-7 ml twice daily.

- **For children from 7 to 12 years**: 5-7 ml twice daily of hibiotic 600 can be taken.

**. Ciptazole Forte**

Ciptazole Forte is considered one of the best antibiotics for treating sore throat and tonsillitis resulting from bacterial infection. This treatment is characterized by its strong effectiveness and its affordable price for everyone.

**Dosage and method of use:** It is recommended to take two tablets every 12 hours to treat sore throat and congestion. The patient must ensure that there is no allergy to sulfa drugs before taking this medicine, so it is preferable to inform the doctor or pharmacist of any allergy or the presence of kidney stones, as this medicine may contribute to the formation of stones.

**Curam tablets**

Curam tablets are considered one of the best antibiotics for treating sore throat, as they are available in several pharmaceutical forms such as syrup, tablets and injections. Curam tablets contain amoxicillin in addition to clavulanic acid, which makes them effective in treating bacterial infections, throat and ear infections, as well as respiratory and urinary tract infections and skin infections.

Dosage and method of use: A box of Curam antibiotic tablets with a concentration of 1 mg contains 3 strips, each strip contains four tablets, and a tablet is taken every 12 hours, and in the presence of pus, a tablet can be taken every 8 hours.

**Ambectam injection**

Ambectam injections contain two active ingredients, namely, Sulbactam and Ampicillin, and are considered a powerful antibiotic with an effective effect in combating bacterial infections. These injections are used in many cases, such as middle ear infections, endometrial infections, sinusitis, tonsillitis and throat infections. However, some side effects may appear, such as coughing, rash, and nausea.

**Novactam injection**

Novactam injections are mainly used to treat bacterial infections that may affect the respiratory system, such as sinusitis, sore throat, tonsillitis, and bronchitis. One of its most prominent benefits is also treating bacterial infections in the skin and urinary tract.

**Salbin Injection**

Salbin injections contain an active ingredient that works to eliminate bacteria, and are used to treat pharyngitis and tonsillitis, otitis media, and sinusitis, in addition to many other uses. Salbin injections are considered a broad-spectrum antibiotic, but it is warned against using them during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as for people who suffer from allergies or kidney and liver dysfunction.

**Zinol Injection**

Zinol injection is a widely known antibiotic, as it is used to treat respiratory diseases, colds, itchy nose, and sore throat. One of its most prominent functions is to eliminate all types of bacteria. However, some side effects may appear associated with its use, such as headache and skin rash.

**Unictam Injection**

Unictam injection is used to treat bacterial infections, bronchitis, sinusitis and tonsillitis, thanks to its active ingredients such as sulbactam and ampicillin. It can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it is preferable to consult a doctor to avoid any complications.

**Clindamycin tablets**

If you suffer from bacterial sore throat, Clindamycin tablets may be the best option for you, as they work to inhibit the growth of bacteria, which helps relieve the symptoms associated with this infection. This antibiotic is available in several dosage forms to suit different types of infections, making it a popular choice. It can be taken in oral doses ranging from 600 to 1800 mg, three to four times daily.

**Gardenova syrup**

Gardenova syrup, which is an antibiotic, contains amoxicillin, which belongs to the penicillin group. This antibiotic is considered a broad-spectrum antibiotic, as it helps eliminate a variety of bacteria.

In addition, the syrup contains clavulanic acid, which works to inhibit the beta-lactam enzyme secreted by bacteria, which prevents amoxicillin from becoming resistant to bacteria.

Gardinova syrup is used to treat bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as sore throat and tonsillitis, and also treats sinusitis resulting from bacterial infection. It also helps in treating acute otitis media associated with bacterial infection, in addition to treating acute pneumonia resulting from bacterial infection.

It contributes to treating artificial joint inflammation resulting from bacterial infection.

It is used to treat urinary tract infections resulting from bacteria.

It treats boils and abscesses that affect the skin.

It is an effective antibiotic in cases of wounds and animal bites to prevent bacterial infections.

It is used to treat gingivitis resulting from bacterial infection.

**- Septrin Double Strength**

**Septrin Tablets Ingredients**

Septrin tablets contain two main ingredients, Sulphamethoxazole and Trimethoprim, which are two types of antibiotics that help treat bacterial infections by eliminating the bacteria causing the infection.

**Septrin Double Strength Tablets Dosage**

The dose is determined based on the patient's condition and age, under the supervision of a specialist doctor, as follows:

- **For adults:** One tablet twice daily, every 12 hours.

- **For children from 5 months to 2 years:** Half a teaspoon twice daily.

- **For children from 2 to 6 years:** Two teaspoons twice daily.

- **For children from 5 to 11 years:** One tablet twice daily or two teaspoons.

**- Zithrone: An antibiotic to treat sore throat**

**Zithrone 500 antibiotic ingredients**Azithromycin: It is the active ingredient in this medicine, and belongs to a class of antibiotics known as macrolides. Azithromycin works to eliminate bacteria that cause infections and inflammation by affecting the processes of protein synthesis within bacterial cells, which leads to the death of these bacteria.

**Zithrone 500 dose for adults**

The dose is determined by the doctor based on the patient's condition and age, as follows:

- For adults: One tablet is taken daily for a period ranging from 3 to 5 days.

- For children over one year old: The dose ranges from 10-30 mg per kg of body weight for 3 or 5 days.

It is necessary to adhere to the prescribed doses of antibiotics and not stop taking them before completing the treatment course, even if the patient feels better.

**- Zithromax antibiotic**

**Zithromax tablets components**

Azithromycin is the active ingredient in Zithromax, and it belongs to the class of antibiotics known as macrolides. This compound works to eliminate bacteria that cause infections and inflammation by affecting protein synthesis processes and causing a defect in the genetic material of bacteria.

**Zithromax 500 dose**

The dose is determined by the doctor based on the patient's condition, age, and severity of the infection, as follows:

- **For adults:** 500 mg once daily for 3 consecutive days, or 500 mg as a first dose on the first day, followed by 250 mg once daily from the second day until the fifth day.

- **For children:** 30 mg per 1 kg of the child's weight as a single dose, or 10 mg per 1 kg of the child's weight once daily for 3 days.

Children can also be given a dose of 10 mg per 1 kg of the child's weight as a first dose on the first day, followed by 5 mg per 1 kg of the child's weight once daily on days two through five. The doctor should determine the appropriate dose according to the child's condition, age and weight.

**- Clavimox: Antibiotic**

**Ingredients of Clavimox 1 g:**

- **Amoxicillin:** is an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin family, and works to eliminate bacteria that cause infection by affecting the structure of the bacterial cell wall.

- **Clavulanic acid:** a substance that contributes to enhancing the effectiveness of the antibiotic by reducing bacterial resistance to it.

**Clavimox 1 gram dose:**

The dose is determined based on the doctor's instructions, according to the patient's condition, age, and severity of infection or inflammation, as follows:

- **For adults and children over 12 years:** 1000 mg twice daily every 12 hours for up to 10 days, or 625 mg twice or three times daily for up to 10 days.

- **For children under 12 years:** The dose is 20-60 mg of amoxicillin per kg of the child's weight per day, where the total daily dose is divided into two or three doses depending on the condition.

*- Quram tablets**

**Quram 1 gram components**

- **Amoxicillin**: It is an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin class, and works to eliminate bacteria that cause many diseases by affecting the manufacture of the cell wall of bacteria.

- **Clavulanic acid**: This substance is added to penicillin antibiotics to enhance their effectiveness against bacteria resistant to this type of drug.

**Quram dosage**

The dosage is determined based on the patient's condition, age, and the type of infection they suffer from, as follows:

- **For children over 12 years**: One tablet (625 mg) every 12 hours.

- **For adults and children weighing more than 40 kg**: One tablet (1 gram) every 12 hours, or one tablet (625 mg) every 8-12 hours.

- **For children under 40 kg**: 25-45 mg per 1 kg of body weight every 12 hours, or 20-40 mg per 1 kg of body weight every 8 hours.

** Augram Suspension**

Augram consists of amoxicillin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, in addition to clavulanic acid, which enhances the effectiveness of amoxicillin against beta-lactamase-producing bacteria. Therefore, it is considered one of the top 10 antibiotics for treating sore throat in children.

The dose is determined by the specialist doctor after assessing the child's condition, based on his health condition and weight.

Some side effects may appear when taking Augram syrup, such as digestive disorders and diarrhea, and allergic reactions may occur. In the event of severe side effects, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

**- Flumox Suspension**

Flumox consists of a combination of amoxicillin and flucloxacillin, and is considered one of the top 10 antibiotics for treating bacterial sore throat in children, in addition to its role in preventing infection after tonsillectomy. It is also used to treat sinusitis and bacterial upper respiratory tract infections.

The recommended dose for children from one month to 18 years of age is 12.5-25 mg per kg of the child's weight, divided into 4 doses per day for children weighing less than 40 kg. As for children weighing more than 40 kg, the dose is 125-500 mg per day, also divided into 4 doses.

Flomox is also available in the form of a vial given by intravenous drip, in cases where the child is unable to swallow the medicine.

It is preferable to take Flumox syrup on an empty stomach, and it is forbidden to take it with any other antibiotics to avoid drug interactions

- Cefixime Suspension

Cefixime belongs to the third generation of cephalosporins, and is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat many forms of bacterial infections in the respiratory and urinary tracts and is one of the top 10 types of antibiotics for sore throats in children.

The dose for children from 6 months to 12 years of age is 8 mg per kg of the child's weight once daily.

It is forbidden to take Cefixime syrup with any antibioticsOther vitality, and it is forbidden to take it for patients with cefixime allergy and penicillin allergy

**- Sutrim Suspension 200/40**

Sutrim syrup consists of a mixture of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, which is an antibiotic containing sulfa compounds, and is used to treat sore throat and respiratory and urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. The recommended dose for children starting from the age of two months is 8 mg per kg of the child's weight, divided into two doses daily.

Sutrim syrup should be avoided if you suffer from an allergy to sulfa compounds or favism.

Some side effects may appear such as digestive disorders, skin rash, or allergic reactions. In case of severe side effects, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

**- Erythroprim suspension**

This syrup contains a combination of erythromycin and trimethoprim, and is effective in treating sore throat and respiratory tract infections, in addition to other infections resulting from bacterial infections, whether positive or negative gram.

It is recommended to consult a doctor before use if the child is taking any chronic medications, in order to avoid unwanted drug interactions.

The dose is determined by the specialist doctor based on the child's condition, weight and age.

In the event of severe side effects or an allergy to any of the syrup's components, please consult a doctor immediately

**- Erythrocin suspension**

The active ingredient in this syrup is erythromycin, which is an antibiotic belonging to the macrolide class, and is considered among the top 10 antibiotics for treating bacterial sore throat. Erythrocin is used to treat throat, ear, respiratory and digestive system infections, in addition to skin infections resulting from bacterial infections, making it the ideal choice as an antibiotic syrup for children suffering from sore throat.

**Dosage:** It ranges from 30-50 ml per kilogram of the child's weight daily, divided into doses, for children from two weeks to 8 years old, for 5 days.

Some side effects may appear when taking erythromycin, such as digestive disorders, yellowing of the skin, and allergic reactions may also occur.

**- Ibiamox Suspension**

Ibiamox syrup contains amoxicillin, an antibiotic that belongs to the penicillin family, and is effective against gram-positive bacteria and some gram-negative species.

This syrup is used to treat bacterial sore throat in children, in addition to tonsillitis and otitis media, making it one of the best options for treating sore throat in this age group.

The recommended dose for children from one month to 18 years of age is 15-30 mg per kilogram of the child's weight, divided into three doses daily, with the daily dose not exceeding 1000 mg for 7 days.

**Side effects:** May include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and skin rash, and an allergy to amoxicillin may occur.

** Rameceftrax Vial **

Rameceftrax injections contain ceftriaxone, a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the cephalosporin class.

It is considered one of the best antibiotics for treating bacterial sore throat in children, as it helps eliminate gram-negative bacteria and some gram-positive species that infect the throat.

It can be used in cases where the child's general condition is poor, which prevents him from swallowing medications, or in cases of persistent vomiting associated with a throat infection.

The appropriate dose is determined by the specialist doctor based on the child's weight and health condition. It is recommended to conduct a sensitivity test before injection, and the injection should be done in an equipped hospital, as it is not preferable to give antibiotics at home or in the pharmacy.

**- Curisafe suspension**

The active ingredient in this syrup is cefadroxil, which is an antibiotic belonging to the first generation of cephalosporins. It is considered among the top 10 antibiotics for treating bacterial sore throat in children, in addition to urinary tract infections and bacterial skin infections.

**Dosage:** 30 ml is given for each kg of the child's weight, divided into two doses daily for 10 days, with the necessity of not exceeding the daily dose of 1000 ml. It is important to adhere to the entire treatment period even if the condition improves or the symptoms disappear, to avoid recurrence of infection or the emergence of bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

Some side effects may appear as a result of taking cefadroxil, such as: abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, in addition to the possibility of allergic reactions.

**Penicillin**

Penicillin is one of the most common antibiotics for treating sore throats. It has been used for decades and remains the first choice due to its effectiveness against the bacteria causing the infection.

Penicillin works by affecting the structure of the cell wall of bacteria, which leads to its destruction.

Penicillin is usually given orally in the form of Penicillin V. In cases where it is difficult to take it orally, an injection of Penicillin G can be given.

The course of treatment usually lasts for ten days, and it is important to complete the full course even if symptoms improve early, in order to avoid recurrence of the infection and resistance of the bacteria.

Common side effects of penicillin include:

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is recommended to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

**Amoxicillin**

Amoxicillin is a commonly used antibiotic for treating sore throats. This medication belongs to the same class of penicillins, but has a broader spectrum of effectiveness.

The benefit of amoxicillin is particularly evident in cases where the patient may have a secondary bacterial infection along with strep throat.

Doctors often prefer to prescribe amoxicillin to children because of its pleasant taste and convenient dosage regimen. It is usually taken orallyOral, and the course of treatment usually lasts for about ten days, just like penicillin.

Amoxicillin is effective in eliminating bacteria and relieving symptoms, which helps speed up the healing process.

Common side effects of amoxicillin include:

- Digestive problems

- Allergic reactions

- Yeast infections

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is recommended to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

**Cefalexin**

Cefalexin is an antibiotic that belongs to the cephalosporin group, and is a suitable alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin. Cephalexin works in a similar way to penicillin by inhibiting the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall, which ultimately leads to the elimination of bacteria.

Cefalexin is effective against a wide range of bacterial infections, including strep throat. The course of treatment usually lasts for 7 to 10 days, and is given orally, as most patients tolerate it well.

This antibiotic is a reliable option for people who cannot take penicillin or amoxicillin, as it provides similar effectiveness in treating strep throat.

Common side effects of cephalexin include:

- Gastrointestinal problems

- Allergic reactions

- Abdominal pain

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

**Clindamycin**

Clindamycin is another alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin. It is a lincosamide antibiotic, and works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, similar to macrolides.

Clindamycin is specifically used to treat strep throat when other antibiotics are not suitable.

A typical course of treatment with clindamycin lasts about ten days, and is taken orally.

It is effective in eliminating the infection and relieving symptoms, ensuring a complete recovery.

As with all antibiotics, it is essential to complete the full course of treatment to avoid the development of antibiotic resistance.

Common side effects of clindamycin include:

- Gastrointestinal problems

- Abdominal pain

- Rash

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

**Durisef 1 gm tablet**

Contains cefadroxil, a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the skin and urinary tract, and is the preferred choice for treating sore throat in adults, including tonsillitis caused by Gram-positive bacteria.

The recommended dose is one tablet every 12 hours for 5 days, and treatment should be continued even after symptoms disappear.

Cefadroxil may cause abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash, and an allergic reaction to it may occur.

If serious side effects or allergic reactions occur, please consult a doctor.