Strep throat
Request an online visit for Strep throat. A licensed provider reviews your case and prescribes treatment when appropriate.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed June 2026
About Strep throat
Strep throat is pharyngitis caused by Group A Streptococcus. Classic features include sudden sore throat, fever, tonsillar exudate, tender anterior cervical lymph nodes, and absence of cough. Diagnosis is supported by rapid antigen testing, with throat culture for confirmation when needed. Untreated strep can lead to rheumatic fever, peritonsillar abscess, and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. First-line treatment is a 10-day course of penicillin or amoxicillin; cephalosporins, clindamycin, or macrolides are used for penicillin allergy. Most patients are no longer contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
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Reference only. Not a substitute for medical advice. Not appropriate for emergencies or controlled substances.