From the FDA Drug Label
It is recommended that there be at least 10 days’ treatment for any infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes to prevent the occurrence of acute rheumatic fever.
The treatment for scarlet fever, which is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, is amoxicillin. The recommended duration of treatment is at least 10 days to prevent the occurrence of acute rheumatic fever 1.
From the Research
Scarlet fever is treated primarily with antibiotics, specifically penicillin or amoxicillin for 10 days, as this approach has been shown to reduce the risk of complications and morbidity, as noted in a study from 2. The treatment of scarlet fever involves the use of antibiotics to kill the Group A Streptococcus bacteria causing the infection.
- The standard dose for children is amoxicillin 50 mg/kg/day divided into three doses (maximum 1500 mg/day) or penicillin V 250 mg for children under 27 kg and 500 mg for those over 27 kg, taken 2-3 times daily, as discussed in 3.
- Adults typically receive penicillin V 500 mg twice daily or amoxicillin 500 mg three times daily.
- For patients allergic to penicillin, alternatives include clindamycin, azithromycin, or clarithromycin, as mentioned in 4. Supportive care is also important, including:
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain
- Plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
- Rest Patients should complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve quickly, as this ensures the infection is fully cleared and reduces the risk of complications, as highlighted in 5 and 6. Antibiotics work by killing the Group A Streptococcus bacteria causing the infection, preventing serious complications like rheumatic fever and kidney inflammation, as noted in 2. Most patients become non-contagious after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and can return to normal activities, though complete recovery may take a week or longer.