What medication works best for scarlet fever?
Sep 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, scarlet fever is caused by infection with group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus and is primarily treated with anti-infective therapy. Commonly used medications include potassium penicillin V tablets, amoxicillin capsules, cefaclor capsules, azithromycin dispersible tablets, and enteric-coated erythromycin tablets, which should be used under medical supervision. In addition, patients with scarlet fever should rest adequately and maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.
Generally, scarlet fever is caused by infection with group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus and is primarily treated with anti-infective therapy. Commonly used medications include potassium penicillin V tablets, amoxicillin capsules, cefaclor capsules, azithromycin dispersible tablets, and erythromycin enteric-coated tablets, which should be used under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Potassium Penicillin V Tablets
The main component is potassium penicillin V, which has good bactericidal effects against the streptococci causing scarlet fever. It inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis, alleviates symptoms such as fever and sore throat, and is a commonly used medication for this disease. It is suitable for patients sensitive to penicillin antibiotics.
2. Amoxicillin Capsules
These contain amoxicillin, a penicillin-class antibiotic with a broad antimicrobial spectrum and strong bactericidal effects against streptococci. It can reduce infection symptoms and promote recovery. It is suitable for patients not allergic to penicillin and should be taken according to the prescribed course.
3. Cefaclor Capsules
This medication belongs to the second-generation cephalosporins and contains cefaclor as the main component. It inhibits streptococci and can relieve discomfort such as fever and rash. It is suitable for patients allergic to or resistant to penicillin. Dosage should be determined under medical supervision.
4. Azithromycin Dispersible Tablets
Containing azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, it exerts antibacterial effects by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and is effective against streptococcal infections. It is particularly suitable for patients allergic to penicillin. A light diet is recommended during treatment.
5. Erythromycin Enteric-Coated Tablets
These contain erythromycin, a macrolide antibiotic with antibacterial activity against streptococci. It controls infections and alleviates symptoms, making it suitable for patients allergic to penicillin antibiotics. It should be taken according to the prescribed course as advised by a doctor.
In addition, patients with scarlet fever should rest adequately, maintain oral hygiene, and drink plenty of water to promote metabolism during treatment. They should avoid crowded places to prevent cross-infection and choose easily digestible foods rich in vitamins to aid recovery.
