A Guide for the Management of Streptococcal Pharyngitis for Pharmacy Teams

Course overview

Streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly referred to as "strep throat," is a prevalent bacterial infection encountered in clinical practice. An estimated 1-2% of all visits to physician offices and emergency departments are due to a sore throat. It is important to accurately identify Group A Beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (GAS) as the cause of sore throat, as this is the only common etiology for which patients should receive antibiotic therapy to treat the condition and prevent potential complications. The Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) last published guidelines for GAS pharyngitis in 2012. As important members of interprofessional care teams, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can help optimize outcomes for patients with GAS pharyngitis by collaborating with the health care team. Patients often visit their local pharmacy to seek recommendations for sore throat relief. In these cases, pharmacists can evaluate patients and refer them to their primary care provider when streptococcal pharyngitis is 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.