The treatment of this condition must be started as soon as possible. If the diagnosis is suspected then treatment must be begun before the results of the culture studies are available. Different antimicrobial drugs are effective.
Seek expert advice.
Treatment guidelines are provided below:
Treatment must be given within 24 hours of onset.
First line: a standard gentamicin dose for severe sepsis or streptomycin: adults 1g IM bd; children, 15mg/kg/day IM bd.
If first line unsuitable then use ciprofloxacin (note 1): adults 400mg IV bd or 500-750 mg orally bd; children 15mg/kg IV bd or 20 mg/kg orally bd.
Milder cases use oral ciprofloxacin as above or doxycycline: adults, 100mg orally bd; children (>8 and <45 kg) 50 mg orally bd.
Note 1: not licensed for children under eight years of age or pregnant women.
Check summary of product characteristics before prescribing any medication described.
Check local microbioligical advice regarding antibiotic use and sensitivities.
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