The Article in Brief

Steroids as Adjuvant Therapy for Acute Pharyngitis in Ambulatory Patients: A Systematic Review

Jean-Francois Chenot , and colleagues

Background Antibiotics may shorten the duration of symptoms of a bacterial throat infection, but the benefits are considered moderate. Steroids, which are anti-inflammatory, might be effective in relieving symptoms. This study examines existing research to determine the effectiveness of steroids for treating sore throat.

What This Study Found Steroids are effective in relieving sore throat pain in adult and pediatric patients, with no serious adverse effects from the different steroids administered. The authors state that it is debatable whether earlier pain relief justifies the administration of steroids, particularly as there are safe and effective over-the-counter medications to relieve sore throat pain. In addition, the benefits of steroid use must be weighed against possible rare adverse drug effects.

Implications

• Further studies are needed to establish the safety of steroid use without antibiotic coverage and the added benefits of steroids when used with over-the-counter analgesic medications.