For uncomplicated gonococcal infection, what is an appropriate single-dose ceftriaxone regimen?

For uncomplicated gonococcal infection, what is an appropriate single-dose ceftriaxone regimen?

• A. Ceftriaxone 250 mg intramuscularly
• B. Ceftriaxone 1 gram IV
• C. Cefdinir oral
• D. Cefixime 400 mg oral

Answer: (A)

A single-dose intramuscular ceftriaxone at 250 mg is the preferred outpatient regimen for uncomplicated gonococcal infection because this third-generation cephalosporin achieves reliable, high tissue and mucosal concentrations with a single shot, providing effective coverage against Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Its pharmacokinetic profile makes it superior to oral options, which have lower bioavailability and less consistent efficacy, and to higher-dose intravenous regimens that are not practical for simple outpatient treatment. In practice, this regimen is often paired with treatment for possible chlamydial coinfection and counseling on abstinence until symptoms resolve.

A single-dose intramuscular ceftriaxone at 250 mg is the preferred outpatient regimen for uncomplicated gonococcal infection because this third-generation cephalosporin achieves reliable, high tissue and mucosal concentrations with a single shot, providing effective coverage against Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Its pharmacokinetic profile makes it superior to oral options, which have lower bioavailability and less consistent efficacy, and to higher-dose intravenous regimens that are not practical for simple outpatient treatment. In practice, this regimen is often paired with treatment for possible chlamydial coinfection and counseling on abstinence until symptoms resolve.