Acute Ear Infection Treatment

Under Pharmacy First, our pharmacists can assess and treat acute otitis media (middle ear infection) in children aged 1 to 17 without the need for a GP appointment. Where appropriate, the pharmacist can supply antibiotics directly.

No, this is a free NHS service. There is no charge for the consultation or for any medicine supplied by the pharmacist.

Common symptoms include ear pain, pulling or tugging at the ear (in younger children), irritability, difficulty sleeping, fever, and sometimes fluid draining from the ear. Children may also have reduced hearing in the affected ear.

Not necessarily. Most ear infections in children resolve on their own within a few days. The pharmacist will assess your child and may recommend pain management and watchful waiting first. Antibiotics will be supplied only when the clinical criteria are met.