Strep Throat Treatment Online

Skip the commute to the doctor’s office—HLTHi's on demand doctors offer convenient online strep throat treatment from the comfort of home. Book a time that works for you, then connect with a board-certified provider virtually for advice on how to manage your symptoms.
For: All ages (Under 18 with parental consent)
Estimated wait time: 5 minutes or less
Get Online Strep Throat Treatment Today

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes throat pain and inflammation. It commonly occurs in children, but anyone can get strep throat.

Symptoms of strep throat

  • Painful swallowing
  • Red and swollen tonsils
  • White coating or patches on tonsils
  • Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
  • Tiny, red spots at the back of the roof of the mouth
  • Fever, headache, and/or rashes
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Throat pain that usually comes on quickly

What causes strep throat?

Strep throat is caused by a type of bacteria known as Group A Streptococcus. It’s highly contagious and is spread from person to person through respiratory droplets (sneezing, coughing, or talking) and direct contact.

How we diagnose strep throat

  • We’ll thoroughly discuss your symptoms.
  • We’ll visually assess your throat and look for any indications.
  • We’ll recommend an in-person visit for a rapid strep test or a throat culture, if necessary.

Effective online treatment for strep throat

Treatment for strep throat typically involves antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or penicillin. The goal is to kill the bacteria that caused the infection.

Medications we prescribe for strep throat

  • Penicillin or amoxicillin: Treats bacterial infections
  • Other antibiotics for patients who are allergic to penicillin, including: Azithromycin,  cephalosporins, clarithromycin, and clindamycin
  • Prescription pain relievers: Addresses throat pain

How to care for strep throar

  • Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Use a humidifier to add moisture into the air and help soothe the throat.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers, if needed.
  • Stay home from work or school at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics.

Easy steps to get virtual strep throat treatment

Our virtual care process is designed to be simple and convenient, providing you with expert healthcare from the comfort of your home. Whether you're dealing with minor symptoms or need guidance on a more persistent issue, our licensed providers are ready to help. Here's how easy it is to get started:

Step 1.
Begin by creating your HLTHi account on your phone or computer. This will only take a few minutes.
Step 2.
You will be asked to about your symptoms, medical history, and any current medications.
Step 3.
The provider will determine if you are eligible to receive a same-day prescription or if you need additional testing.
Step 4.
The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat your bronchitis—either during the visit or after the lab returns your testing results (if needed).
Step 5.
The clinician may recommend over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers to help manage the symptoms.
Start your virtual visit now and get fast, same-day care for strep throat!

Common questions you may have about strep throat

How to get rid of strep throat overnight?

While strep throat can’t be cured overnight, starting antibiotics as soon as possible can help you feel better within 24 to 48 hours. If you think you have strep throat, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. With HLTHi's on demand doctors, you can get tested, diagnosed, and prescribed antibiotics, all from home, so you can start recovering quickly. In the meantime, rest, stay hydrated, and use throat lozenges or warm salt water gargles to ease discomfort.

Can you have strep without a fever?

Yes, you can have strep throat without a fever. While fever is a common symptom, some people—especially adults or those with mild infections—may experience only a sore throat, swollen tonsils, or difficulty swallowing. Other symptoms like white patches on the throat, swollen lymph nodes, and redness can also indicate strep. If you’re unsure whether you have strep throat, a HLTHi provider can evaluate your symptoms, recommend testing if needed, and prescribe antibiotics if appropriate—all from the comfort of home.

Is strep throat contagious?

Yes, strep throat is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or shares food and drinks. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your mouth or nose. Strep throat is most contagious in the first few days of infection but can quickly become less contagious after 24 hours of starting antibiotics. If you have symptoms like a sore throat, fever, or swollen glands, a can assess your condition and prescribe treatment if needed—helping you recover faster and prevent spreading it to others.

Can strep throat be treated online?

Yes, you can get treatment for strep throat online by easily booking an appointment with HLTHi. A doctor can evaluate your symptoms, do a visual assessment of your throat, and prescribe medication.

What is the fastest way to cure strep throat?

The fastest way to cure a strep throat is by taking antibiotics as prescribed by a doctor. They can reduce the longevity and severity of your symptoms.

Can you get antibiotics for strep throat over the counter?

No, antibiotics are not available over the counter for strep throat and require a prescription by a healthcare provider.

Does azithromycin treat strep throat?

Azithromycin can be used to treat strep throat, but it is not the first-choice antibiotic. Doctors typically prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin because they are more effective against Group A Streptococcus, the bacteria that cause strep throat. However, if you’re allergic to penicillin, azithromycin may be an alternative option. If you have symptoms of strep throat, a HLTHi provider can evaluate your condition, recommend the best treatment, and prescribe medication if needed—all from the comfort of home.

Can you treat strep throat without antibiotics?

While most causes of sore throat are viral and can be treated without antibiotics, strep throat is best treated with antibiotics. Pain relievers and other symptomatic treatments can also help reduce the severity of symptoms. Consult your doctor if you’re concerned about taking antibiotics.

What happens if I leave strep throat untreated?

Strep throat that is left untreated can lead to rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, abscesses, sinus infections, ear infections, pneumonia, and possibly scarlet fever. See a doctor in as little as 5 minutes to help you get the treatment you need.