Lozenges containing antibiotics to help sore throats are ‘fuelling superbug rise’, research warns

THROAT lozenges containing antibiotics are fuelling the rise of superbugs, scientists say.

Some pastilles contain antibiotics called tyrothricin, says Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare.

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But antibiotics only work on bacterial infections and most sore throats are viral.

Overuse of antibiotics allows bacteria to become dangerously resistant.

Adrian Shephard, of Reckitt Benckiser said: “Our work raises doubt about using these antibiotics for sore throats.”

NICE has said it is "vital" the medicines are only used when effective because of the rise of antibiotic resistance.

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The overuse of antibiotics is making infections harder to treat by creating drug-resistant superbugs.

Acute sore throat, including pharyngitis and tonsillitis, can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, with symptoms usually improving by themselves within a week.

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