Viral (common cause) - not recommended.

Bacterial -

Phenoxymethylpenicillin oral* 500mg 6 hourly or 1g 12 hourly for 10 days in total

If true penicillin / beta-lactam allergy:

Clarithromycin** oral 500mg 12 hourly for 5 days in total

Bacterial cause commonly Streptococcus pyogenes.

*IV therapy is only given in severe cases or if unable to swallow (see Tonsillitis / Pharyngitis (unable to swallow) or Tonsillitis / Pharyngitis in sepsis).

**Clarithromycin - serious drug interactions and risk of QT prolongation (see here for further information and  BNF Appendix 1).