Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the safest antibiotic choice for a pregnant patient with strep throat who is intolerant to erythromycin?

1. Clarithromycin (Biaxin)

2. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim DS)

3. Ofloxacin (Floxin)

4. Penicillin (Pen VK)

The correct answer is: Penicillin (Pen VK)

The safest antibiotic choice for a pregnant patient with strep throat who is intolerant to erythromycin is penicillin. Penicillin is considered the first-line treatment for streptococcal infections during pregnancy due to its established safety profile. Numerous studies and extensive clinical experience have demonstrated that penicillin does not pose risks to the developing fetus, making it a preferred option. Additionally, penicillin effectively targets Streptococcus bacteria, ensuring that the infection is adequately treated. In cases where there is a penicillin allergy, alternatives such as cephalosporins may be considered, but these are not options in this scenario. Overall, the utilization of penicillin aligns with best practices for managing strep throat in pregnant patients, balancing efficacy and safety for both the mother and the developing child.