Which antibiotic is the first choice for treating Campylobacter jejuni infections?

Azithromycin is the first choice for treating Campylobacter jejuni infections due to its effectiveness against this particular pathogen, which is a common cause of gastroenteritis. Campylobacter species are often resistant to several antibiotics, but azithromycin is generally well-tolerated and can target the bacteria effectively.

In cases of moderate to severe Campylobacter infections, especially those involving bloody diarrhea or prolonged symptoms, azithromycin has been shown to reduce the duration of symptoms and improve patient outcomes. It's particularly preferred in certain populations, such as pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions, because of its safety profile.

Other options may have some effectiveness, but they are not the first line for various reasons. For instance, ciprofloxacin, while sometimes used, has increasing resistance issues with Campylobacter. Metronidazole is not typically effective for this type of infection, as it targets anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoa rather than Campylobacter species. Amoxicillin, on the other hand, is usually ineffective against Campylobacter due to intrinsic resistance. Thus, azithromycin stands out as the most appropriate choice for this specific bacterial infection.