What Do Doctors Prescribe for Strep Throat?

Last Updated on 1 year by Francis

Strep throat is a contagious bacterial infection that can cause a sore, scratchy throat and other uncomfortable symptoms. Although it can be painful, there are effective treatments available to help relieve the symptoms and speed up the recovery process. In this article, we’ll explore what doctors typically prescribe for strep throat and how these medications can help. So, if you’re suffering from a sore throat, read on to learn more about the treatments that may be prescribed by your doctor.

Treating Strep Throat with Prescription Medication

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. Its symptoms include sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches in the throat. Treatment for strep throat typically involves antibiotics, which are prescribed by a doctor. In this article, we’ll look at the types of prescription medications doctors often prescribe for strep throat.

Penicillin

Penicillin is the most common antibiotic prescribed to treat strep throat. It works by attacking the bacterial cells and preventing them from multiplying, thus reducing the severity of the infection. Penicillin is usually taken in pill form, but a liquid form is available for children or those who can’t swallow pills. The most common side effects associated with penicillin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In some cases, a doctor may prescribe an extended-release version of penicillin. This type of penicillin is taken for a longer period of time, usually 10-14 days. This allows the medication to remain in the body longer and be more effective in treating the infection.

Amoxicillin

Amoxicillin is a type of penicillin that is often prescribed to treat strep throat. It works similarly to penicillin but is more effective against a wider range of bacteria. Amoxicillin is available in pill and liquid forms and is usually taken twice a day for 10-14 days.

The most common side effects associated with amoxicillin include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, amoxicillin can also cause a rash. It’s important to contact a doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

Cephalosporins

Cephalosporins are a group of antibiotics that are often prescribed to treat strep throat. They work by attacking the bacterial cells and preventing them from multiplying. The most common cephalosporins prescribed for strep throat are cefuroxime and cefpodoxime.

Cephalosporins are typically taken in pill form and are usually taken twice a day for 10-14 days. The most common side effects associated with cephalosporins include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, cephalosporins can also cause a rash.

Macrolides

Macrolides are a group of antibiotics that are often prescribed to treat strep throat. They work by attacking the bacterial cells and preventing them from multiplying. The most common macrolides prescribed for strep throat are erythromycin and azithromycin.

Macrolides are usually taken in pill or liquid form and are typically taken twice a day for 10-14 days. The most common side effects associated with macrolides include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, macrolides can also cause a rash.

Other Medications

In addition to antibiotics, a doctor may also prescribe other medications to treat strep throat. These medications may include pain relievers to reduce pain and throat lozenges to soothe the throat. It’s important to follow the directions of your doctor when taking any medication.

In some cases, a doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes to help reduce the severity of the infection. These may include drinking plenty of fluids, gargling with salt water, and avoiding irritants such as cigarette smoke.

Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. It is one of the most common bacterial infections in children, although it can affect people of any age. Symptoms of strep throat include sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white spots on the tonsils.

What Do Doctors Prescribe for Strep Throat?

The primary treatment for strep throat is antibiotics. Doctors typically prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin to treat the infection. These antibiotics work by killing the bacteria that cause strep throat. In some cases, a different antibiotic may be prescribed based on the patient’s age, underlying medical conditions, and the severity of the infection.

How Long Does It Take for the Antibiotics to Work?

It typically takes about 48 hours for symptoms of strep throat to improve after starting antibiotics. However, it’s important to take the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully treated.

What Are Some Possible Side Effects of the Antibiotics?

The most common side effects of antibiotics used to treat strep throat include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some people may also experience an allergic reaction to the antibiotics, which can cause hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

Are There Any Home Remedies for Strep Throat?

Yes, there are several home remedies that can help ease the symptoms of strep throat. These include gargling with warm salt water, drinking lots of fluids, and using a humidifier to soothe the throat. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help reduce pain and fever.

When Should Someone Seek Medical Attention for Strep Throat?

If a person has symptoms of strep throat, such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white spots on the tonsils, they should seek medical attention. It is important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment, as untreated strep throat can lead to serious complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.

How much dose of an antibiotic is sufficient for Strep Throat? – Dr. Sriram Nathan

Doctors typically prescribe antibiotics for strep throat to help reduce the severity and duration of the illness. Taking antibiotics as prescribed, and taking care to rest, drink fluids, and use over-the-counter medications for symptom relief, can help you to recover quickly from strep throat. With proper care and treatment, you can get back to feeling your best in no time.