What are the recommended antibiotics for a patient suffering from endocarditis caused by a penicillin-resistant strain?
The recommended antibiotics for a patient suffering from endocarditis caused by a penicillin-resistant strain are ampicillin (2 g IV every 4 h), ceftriaxone (2 g/24 h IV/IM in 1 dose), gentamicin sulfate (3 mg/kg per 24 h IV/IM in 1 dose), and vancomycin hydrochloride (30 mg/kg per 24 h IV in 2 equally divided doses). Vancomycin is only recommended for patients unable to tolerate penicillin or ceftriaxone. Additionally, the addition of vancomycin and rifampin to cefotaxime (or ceftriaxone) may be considered in certain cases. Consultation with an infectious diseases specialist is also recommended. 