How Do I Cure My Strep Throat?

Medically Reviewed by Poonam Sachdev on May 19, 2024
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
4 min read

Strep throat may go away on its own, but getting treatment with antibiotics can help you get rid of it faster and prevent more severe symptoms. Early treatment with antibiotics can also reduce the risk of spreading strep to others. 

In addition to antibiotics, over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease symptoms. You can also do some things at home to help you feel better, such as getting extra rest and drinking plenty of fluids.

This class of drugs can kill the group A Streptococcus bacteria that cause strep throat. Antibiotics work only on bacteria and do not affect sore throats caused by viruses.

Antibiotics can:

  • Relieve your sore throat and other symptoms if they are caused by strep
  • Help you get better faster
  • Make it less likely you will spread it to others
  • Help prevent complications such as sinus and tonsil infections, as well as more serious things such as rheumatic fever

Doctors most often prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin to treat strep throat. They are the top choices because they're safer, inexpensive, and they work well on strep bacteria.

If you're allergic to penicillin, you may be able to take one of these antibiotics instead:

You'll take antibiotics by mouth one to three times each day. Sometimes, doctors give antibiotics through a shot.

Side effects

Antibiotics sometimes cause side effects, such as:

Usually, these side effects are mild. They should stop once you finish the medicine. If they are severe or persist, call your doctor.

People may have an allergy to antibiotics sometimes, though it is rare. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:

Seek emergency medical care if you have any of these symptoms.

How long do I take them?

Most antibiotic treatments for strep throat last about 10 days. You should start to feel better a day or two after you start them.

Even if you feel better earlier, you should finish all your pills. You can leave some bacteria alive if you stop too soon. If strep is not fully treated, it might lead to complications such as:

  • Sinus, ear, and tonsil infections
  • Rheumatic fever, which can damage the heart, brain, and joints
  • Kidney problems
  • Scarlet fever
  • Poststreptococcal reactive arthritis

Recurring strep treatment

Some people can have strep several times in a year. This is called recurring strep. It's often caused by antibiotic resistance or a weakened immune system. Your doctor can try changing the type or dose of your antibiotics. In rare cases, they might recommend you have your tonsils removed.

Until the antibiotics start to work, these home treatments can help you feel better:

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to bring down a fever and ease the sore throat. 

Rest. Stay home from school or work. You need extra rest to help your body fight off the infection.

Gargling. Rinse with a mixture of 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of warm water to relieve a scratchy throat.

Lozenges. These can help coat your sore throat. Some include ingredients that can provide pain relief.

Lots of fluids.Water and warm liquids such as soup or tea soothe the throat and keep you hydrated. If a cold sensation soothes your throat, suck on a frozen pop or ice chips. Avoid orange juice, lemonade, and other drinks that are high in acid. These can burn your throat.

Soft foods. Examples include yogurt, applesauce, or frozen yogurt. They're easier to swallow.

Cool mist humidifier or saline nasal spray. Moisture can help make your throat feel better.

Steer clear of anything that might bother your throat, such as cigarette smoke, paint fumes, or cleaning products.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes a sore throat, fever, rash, and other symptoms. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria and help you get better faster, as well as prevent more serious conditions. You'll need to visit your doctor for a prescription. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help, as can home treatments such as rest and fluids.

What is the fastest way to cure strep throat?

Antibiotics are the fastest cure. They can often help you start to feel better in a day or two.

What is the best antibiotic for strep throat?

Amoxycillin and penicillin are the most common and effective antibiotics used to treat strep.

Does strep throat go away by itself?

It can go away on its own. But antibiotics can make it go away faster and ease your symptoms sooner.

What can I drink to cure strep throat?

No drink can cure strep. But it's important to drink plenty of liquids when you're sick. Warm drinks with honey can help soothe your sore throat.