What are the best antibiotics for pneumonia?
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 11, 2024.
The appropriate antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia depend on your specific infection, overall health, and local patterns of antibiotic resistance. Your doctor will consider factors like your age, weight, allergies, and any prior antibiotic use.
First-line antibiotics commonly used include:
- Macrolides: Azithromycin (Zithromax), clarithromycin (Biaxin XL)
- Tetracyclines: Doxycycline
For more severe cases or those with complications, other options may include:
- Fluoroquinolones: Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
- Beta-lactams (often combined with macrolides): Amoxicillin or amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin)
Not all pneumonia requires antibiotics, as viral pneumonia is treated differently. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of your condition, and in some cases, intravenous antibiotics may be necessary in a hospital setting.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance, and let them know if you have any drug allergies or concerns about resistance.
See also: Medications to treat pneumonia
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