The role of pharmacists in optimising patient outcomes to reduce the burden of tonsillitis

Abstract

Tonsillitis is a common upper respiratory tract infection frequently encountered in pharmacy practice, with significant implications for antimicrobial stewardship. It typically involves inflammation of the palatine tonsils, most often caused by viral infections, but occasionally by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS). This article reviews the anatomy, epidemiology, aetiology, complications, and management of tonsillitis, with an emphasis on evidence-based pharmacological and supportive care. It also highlights the essential role pharmacists play in optimising treatment, counselling patients and promoting rational antibiotic use to reduce antimicrobial resistance.