A Guide for the Management of Streptococcal Pharyngitis for Pharmacy Teams

Streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly called "strep throat," is a prevalent bacterial infection in clinical practice. Appropriately identifying Group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus (GABHS) as the cause of sore throat is important, as this is the only common etiology for which patients should receive antibiotics to treat the condition and prevent potential complications. As members of interprofessional care teams, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can assist in optimizing the outcomes of patients with GAS pharyngitis through collaboration with the health care team. Patients often visit their local pharmacy to seek recommendations for sore throat relief. In these cases, pharmacists can evaluate and refer patients to their primary care provider when streptococcal pharyngitis seems likely. Pharmacists can also counsel patients and caregivers on prescribed antibiotics and supplemental analgesics and offer strategies to prevent transmission to others. This continuing education presentation aims to provide pharmacists and pharmacy technicians with a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and evidence-based management strategies associated with streptococcal pharyngitis.