Is it normal that it takes so long for the sore throat to go away with an antibiotic?

Question

I have been taking penicillin for 5 days for a strep infection, but my throat is still sore. My doctor said that the antibiotics would take effect after two days. I had a fever, inability to eat solids, and inability to sleep because the cough lasted almost all night and a lot of mucus. I've been sleeping longer for the last three days, but I still have a bit of a cough at night and still have a bit of a fever, I also have less mucus. The sore throat was less present yesterday, but I have been in a lot of pain again since this morning. I am able to eat solid but soft food (ex: pasta), which is better than last week. I wonder if the antibiotics are strong enough or if I should wait until the end of the treatment before worrying

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Good morning, Mrs, You can indeed have a good idea of the effectiveness of the treatment after 2 to 3 days. Besides the sore throat, what were your other symptoms? Have they improved? Thanks for the feedback. There is usually no resistance of strep to penicillin If the sore throat is due to coughing, the best solutions will be acetaminophen (Tylenol and other brands), lozenges such as Halls or Fisherman's Friend, and nasal hygiene which you can do as often as needed during the day. I also encourage you to drink plenty of fluids, cold or hot depending on your preference. If you have a fever for 3 days in a row, I would recommend re-consulting for a new evaluation. I hope that I have been helpful to you and remain available if you have any further questions Sincerely, Tom Samaha, pharmacist