What is the best pharmacologic treatment for a patient confirmed to have gonorrhea?

The best pharmacologic treatment for a patient confirmed to have gonorrhea is a combination of ceftriaxone administered as an intramuscular injection and azithromycin given orally. This dual therapy is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as it provides effective treatment against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea. The combination works to combat the potential for antibiotic resistance, which has become an increasing concern with gonococcal infections. Ceftriaxone, a third-generation cephalosporin, offers powerful action against the bacteria, while azithromycin provides additional coverage and helps to ensure that the infection is treated effectively.

Other treatment options, although they may be effective for different conditions or infections, do not adhere to the current guidelines for gonorrhea. For example, ciprofloxacin is not typically recommended due to rising resistance patterns. Similarly, metronidazole and doxycycline are not the preferred treatments for gonorrhea; metronidazole is more commonly used for other infections such as those caused by Trichomonas, and doxycycline, while useful for certain other infections, does not target gonorrhea effectively in the current treatment landscape. Thus, the combination of cef