Parotitis
The regional formulary will not cover all eventualities for infections medicines choices. As with any condition; patient specific factors and sensitivities need to be considered. Please consider this regional formulary advice alongside any relevant local Board guidelines.
Treatment of parotitis
Consider mumps or other non-infective causes as a diagnosis.
If there are no signs of sepsis.
Flucloxacillin
Flucloxacillin 500mg capsules
500mg every 6 hours for 7 days.
Metronidazole
Metronidazole 400mg tablets
400mg every 8 hours for 7 days.
If penicillin allergic, or previous MRSA infection.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline 100mg capsules
100mg every 12 hours for 7 days.
Metronidazole
Metronidazole 400mg tablets
400mg every 8 hours for 7 days.
Prescribing Notes:
- Most cases of bacterial parotitis are in frail elderly patients with dehydration.
- Patients with persistent (>2weeks) symptoms or unexplained parotid swelling or suspected parotid duct calculi should be referred to ENT.
History Notes
30/07/2026
Regional formulary chapter launched.