Penicillin is the most common and effective antibiotic used to kill Group B Streptococcus (GBS).
Understanding GBS and its Treatment
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a bacteria often found in the vagina or rectum. While usually harmless to adults, it can cause serious infections in newborns. During pregnancy, women are tested for GBS, and if positive, they are given antibiotics during labor to prevent transmission to the baby.
Effective Antibiotics for GBS
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Penicillin: This is the first-line antibiotic choice for most GBS infections due to its high effectiveness and safety profile. Multiple sources confirm its efficacy. [See Mayo Clinic, March of Dimes, ACOG, and UpToDate references].
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Alternatives to Penicillin: If a penicillin allergy exists, other antibiotics such as amoxicillin or vancomycin may be used. [See Mayo Clinic and Medscape references]. The specific antibiotic will depend on the type and severity of the infection. [See Minnesota Department of Health reference].
Important Considerations
- Intrapartum Antibiotics: For pregnant women with positive GBS tests, intravenous antibiotics during labor are crucial for preventing neonatal infections. [See CDC reference].
- Treatment Duration: The duration of antibiotic treatment may vary depending on the situation. [See ACOG reference].
- Other Infections: GBS can cause infections beyond pregnancy, like soft tissue and bone infections, which may require surgery in addition to antibiotics. [See Minnesota Department of Health reference].
