Which antibiotic combination is used to treat gonorrhoea?

Ceftriaxone and Azithromycin is the recommended antibiotic combination for the treatment of gonorrhoea. This pairing is effective as it targets the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria responsible for the infection. Ceftriaxone is a cephalosporin antibiotic that works by interfering with bacterial cell wall synthesis, leading to cell lysis and death. Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, inhibits protein synthesis in bacteria, further enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment by providing coverage against potential co-infection with Chlamydia trachomatis, which commonly occurs alongside gonorrhoea.

This dual therapy approach is critical in combating the rising rates of antibiotic resistance in gonorrhoea, as using two different mechanisms of action increases the likelihood of completely eradicating the infection and reduces the chances of treatment failure. Recommendations from guidelines emphasize this strategy to ensure adequate treatment, considering the evolving resistance patterns of gonococcal infections.

In contrast, the other combinations listed do not align with current recommended practices for treating gonorrhoea.