Sunday, March 19, 2006

Stop the Strep
While adults are less likely to contract strep throat, I can tell you that the teachers of Denver, up close and personal with small children in thin control of their secretions, are certainly battling the bug this season.

An analysis of 47 antibiotic trials involving 11,500 patients suggests that penicillin just doesn't faze this germ anymore. Additional treatment was needed for 24% of the stricken given penicillin and 18% of those taking amoxicillin.

Cephalosporins such as Keflex (cephalexin) had a better cure rate. Only 14% of the cephalexined came back with an incomplete cure, and merely 7% of those on newer cephalosporins.

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