Treatment for Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection depends on the specific situation and patient population. Generally, antibiotics are the primary course of action.
Here's a breakdown:
Antibiotic Treatment
- Penicillin and Ampicillin: These are often the first-line treatments for GBS infections, including endocarditis.
- Vancomycin: According to recent findings, vancomycin remains the initial treatment of choice for GBS infection in patients who are allergic to penicillin. This is due to potential clindamycin resistance.
Table: Antibiotic Treatment Options for GBS Infection
| Antibiotic | Primary Use | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Penicillin | Standard treatment for GBS infections. | Effective in most cases unless resistance is present. |
| Ampicillin | Another common treatment for GBS infections, including endocarditis. | Similar efficacy to penicillin. |
| Vancomycin | Treatment for GBS infections in individuals with penicillin allergies. | Becoming increasingly important due to potential clindamycin resistance. Should be considered the initial choice for penicillin-allergic patients. |
GBS Endocarditis Treatment
For GBS-related endocarditis, penicillin, ampicillin, and vancomycin continue to be the preferred antibiotic choices.
