Which antibiotic is recommended for treating chlamydia in a pregnant patient?

Azithromycin is recommended for treating chlamydia in pregnant patients because it is effective, has a single-dose regimen, and is safe for use during pregnancy. Azithromycin acts by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, providing a rapidly effective treatment for Chlamydia trachomatis infections.

In pregnant individuals, doxycycline is typically avoided due to its association with potential adverse effects on fetal development, particularly concerning tooth development and bone growth. Ceftriaxone, while effective against gonorrhea, is not the first-line treatment for chlamydia. Levofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone, is also generally not recommended for chlamydia in pregnant patients due to concerns over potential risks to fetal development.

The choice of azithromycin reflects a balance of efficacy, safety profile, and convenience, making it the standard treatment option for chlamydial infections in pregnancy.