What is the first line treatment for Tularemia?

The first line treatment for Tularemia, which is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, typically involves the use of Streptomycin or Gentamicin. These aminoglycoside antibiotics are preferred because they are effective against this highly virulent organism, particularly in severe cases of Tularemia such as pneumonic or systemic forms. Streptomycin is the traditional treatment, and Gentamicin serves as an effective alternative if Streptomycin is not available or tolerated.

Doxycycline is also effective against Tularemia, particularly in mild forms of the disease or for prophylaxis, but it is not the first-line treatment for more serious cases. Similarly, while Atovaquone + Azithromycin and Amoxicillin-Clavulanate may be effective against other infections, they do not have the same strong efficacy against Francisella tularensis as the aminoglycosides, making them less suitable as first-line treatments for Tularemia specifically. It’s important to choose the appropriate antibiotic based on the severity of the infection and the pharmacological properties of the drugs.