In a patient allergic to penicillin with viridans group streptococci endocarditis, which therapy is most appropriate?

Study for the Board Certified Cardiology Pharmacist Exam. Utilize flashcards and answer multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Prepare efficiently for your certification!

In the context of treating viridans group streptococci endocarditis in a patient with a penicillin allergy, vancomycin is the most appropriate choice due to its efficacy against this particular group of bacteria. Viridans streptococci are typically susceptible to penicillin, but in patients with a documented allergy to penicillin, it's crucial to select an alternative agent that is effective and safe.

Vancomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic that provides broad coverage against Gram-positive bacteria, including viridans group streptococci. While penicillin-based therapies would be ideal, they are contraindicated due to the patient's allergy. Therefore, vancomycin is used to ensure adequate treatment of the infection while avoiding any potential allergic reactions.

Other choices, such as ceftriaxone and combinations involving gentamicin, are not appropriate when a patient has a history of allergic reactions to penicillin since some individuals allergic to penicillin may also react to cephalosporins, which includes ceftriaxone. Additionally, the combination therapies listed could include penicillin derivatives, which are unsuitable in this scenario. Thus, vancomycin stands out as the safest and most effective option given the patient's allergy and the nature of

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy