Strep throat is treated with prescription antibiotics, such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and erythromycin, among others. Sometimes, over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or home remedies can reduce pain and ease other uncomfortable symptoms. If you have symptoms, you should see your healthcare provider to find out whether you have strep throat—an accurate diagnosis will help you get the right treatment for the infection and help prevent complications of a persistent infection. Show
PrescriptionsPrescription antibiotics are the treatment of choice for strep throat for several reasons:
Selection of AntibioticsIf you do not have an allergy to penicillin, you will likely be prescribed:
Any antibiotic that ends in -cillin is part of the penicillin family and will not be used if you have a penicillin allergy. If you do have a penicillin allergy, there are safe alternatives to the above:
When to Call 911Call your healthcare provider if you experience rash and any other signs of allergy after taking an antibiotic. If your symptoms are severe (trouble breathing, facial swelling, vomiting, rapid pulse, wheezing), call 911 or seek emergency care. EffectivenessHow well an antibiotic works for you depends on a few factors, including:
Precautions and ConsiderationsThere are many different kinds of bacteria that normally live in the back of the throat and don't make you sick. In fact, these bacteria, called "normal flora," actually help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Many antibiotics destroy normal flora along with harmful bacteria. Losing that protection that you would usually get from normal flora can cause you to contract another case of strep throat within the first month or so after your initial treatment—even if your first course of antibiotics was successful. If you stop early before the infectious bacteria is eradicated, resistant strains can begin to multiply, and they will be far less responsive to treatment in the future. Antibiotic resistance has been reported with the antibiotics used to treat strep throat, though resistant bacterial strains are not common. Resistance has been reported with all antibiotics, especially with Zithromax (azithromycin). To avoid antibiotic resistance, take your medications as prescribed and complete the entire course even if you feel better. If an initial course of antibiotics does not work for you, a new antibiotic typically will. Over-the-Counter TherapiesIf you have strep throat, some over-the-counter therapies can help relieve some of your symptoms as you recover, but they cannot treat the infection or prevent complications.
Home RemediesHome remedies can make you more comfortable if you have strep throat, but they cannot cure the infection. They are short-term solutions and do not provide lasting relief. Some home remedies you may find helpful include:
SurgeryIf you have had strep throat seven or more times in one year, your healthcare provider may recommend a tonsillectomy. This procedure is more common for children than adults, primarily because children have a higher tendency to experience recurrent strep throat infections. In most cases, a tonsillectomy will solve the problem of recurring strep throat, but not always. Speak with your/your child's healthcare provider about the possible reasons for recurring strep throat and the benefits and risks of surgery as you are considering this procedure. Most people can go home on the same day or within 24 hours after surgery. Recovery generally takes five to 10 days. During recovery, cold foods and drinks are recommended for comfort and to decrease swelling. Seek medical attention if you experience a fever above 100.4 F or have extreme pain, shortness of breath, or a bloody cough following surgery. Complementary Medicine (CAM)There are no effective complementary treatments that can cure strep throat, but you can get some relief from these options. The CAM treatments listed here are safe, but they can't replace medical treatment—you can use them along with the medical treatments recommended by your healthcare provider.
ResearchThere has been some research looking at potential CAM treatments for Strep throat, and some treatments that have had interesting results in a laboratory setting have not been proven to help treat the infection in humans.
PreventionEven though strep throat is contagious, you can take steps to prevent spreading it and to reduce your chances of catching it from others. One of the easiest ways to prevent strep throat is to wash your hands. This is especially important after you sneeze, cough, go to the bathroom, or before preparing food. Using a hand sanitizer can also help. In general, try to avoid contact with people who are strep throat carriers. If you live with someone who has this infection, do your best to avoid using the same utensils, straws, or toothbrush holder. The less you share, the safer you'll be. Frequently Asked Questions
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Kristin Hayes, RN Thanks for your feedback! Can you get rid of strep without antibiotics?Strep throat typically goes away in three to seven days with or without antibiotic treatment. However, if you don't take antibiotics, you can remain contagious for two to three weeks and are at a higher risk for complications, such as rheumatic fever.
How can I get rid of strep throat fast?Strep throat is treated with a course of antibiotics. Your doctor will prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin. If you're allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics will treat strep. A course of antibiotics will help decrease your symptoms and the amount of time you're sick.
Can you buy medicine for strep throat over the counter?To manage the symptoms of strep throat there are over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain, and at-home remedies like drinking plenty of water.
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