I am on penicillin and am concerned that I don't feel that much better. I had been told by a relative that improvements should be remarkable and immediate, even after a dose or two. That has not been the case.

I have been searching the internet and have not found much information on strep throat from the PATIENT'S point of view – e.g., what he/she might feel after taking antibiotics, and what the perceived effects and benefits should be.

Days 1 and 2 I felt sore throat, ear pressure, swollen glands, sinus infection, no coughing. Day 3 I went to the doctor and tested positive for strep (rapid test). That evening I took my first dose of 2x daily 500 mg penicillin VK (ten day course). Now is the morning of Day 5 (only 4 doses so far – meds started in the evening of Day 3 ) and I feel about the same. Given that it is Memorial Day weekend, do I have the doctor paged to get me on something else? Or does this require patience?

Please cite your source of information or expertise.

You certainly should have noticed a drastic difference by day 5. you should have the doctor paged or go to a walk-in clinic that is open to get another prescription. since this antibiotic isn't effective against the strep, you're basically walking around with an infection that's just getting worse. One of the main complications of untreated strep throat is meningitis. Call your doctor immediately.

i've had strep throat twice. i did not not take penicilian. i drunk green tea with chinese honey and in two days, it was gone!! you need to buy the green tea with the chinese symbols on it.