High-Yield Antibiotic Flashcards (Part 2 – Dosing, Coverage & Contraindications)

What is the usual adult dose of Amoxicillin for common infections?

500 mg three times daily, or 875 mg twice daily for more severe infections.

What is the typical Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) adult dose?

875/125 mg every 12 hours.

Which antibiotic is first-line for streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat)?

Amoxicillin or Penicillin V.

What antibiotic is given as a single IM dose for gonorrhea?

Ceftriaxone (Rocephin) 500 mg IM × 1 dose.

What is given for chlamydia treatment?

Doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 7 days.

Which antibiotic should only be used for uncomplicated lower UTIs (cystitis)?

Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid).

Why should Macrobid not be used for kidney infections (pyelonephritis)?

It doesn’t reach therapeutic concentrations in renal tissue or bloodstream.

What are the “big 3” oral options for MRSA coverage?

Doxycycline, Bactrim (TMP/SMX), and Clindamycin.

What antibiotic is the drug of choice for C. diff infection?

Oral Vancomycin.

What is the main IV antibiotic used for MRSA infections?

Vancomycin (IV).

Which antibiotic must be infused slowly (90–120 minutes) to prevent Red Man Syndrome?

Vancomycin.

What should you never mix with IV calcium-containing solutions in neonates?

Ceftriaxone — can cause fatal precipitation.

Which antibiotics should be avoided in pregnancy or children due to bone/teeth effects?

tetracyclines (Doxycycline, Minocycline).

What patient teaching is essential for photosensitivity drugs like Tetracyclines or Sulfa?

Avoid direct sunlight, use sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing.

What lab tests are monitored with aminoglycosides and vancomycin?

BUN, creatinine, peak and trough levels.

Which antibiotic requires no alcohol due to severe reaction (vomiting, flushing)?

Metronidazole (Flagyl).

Which antibiotics can cause QT prolongation and arrhythmias?

Fluoroquinolones and Macrolides.

Which antibiotics are most likely to cause C. diff superinfection?

Clindamycin, Fluoroquinolones, Cephalosporins.

What is the mechanism of action of Beta-lactam antibiotics (Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Carbapenems)?

They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis.

Why should patients complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve?

To prevent relapse, incomplete eradication, and antibiotic resistance.