Which oral antibiotic does not provide adequate coverage for skin infections?

Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that primarily targets Gram-negative bacteria and some atypical pathogens. While it has a role in treating infections like urinary tract infections and certain gastrointestinal infections, it is not the first choice for skin and soft tissue infections, particularly those caused by Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species, which are common culprits in these conditions.

In comparison, doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that offers good coverage for common skin pathogens, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Amoxicillin is effective against a range of Gram-positive organisms, making it suitable for skin infections, particularly those caused by streptococci. Cephalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin, also provides robust coverage against common skin pathogens, including both Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species.

Thus, the choice of ciprofloxacin for skin infections may not be adequate, as it lacks sufficient coverage for these typical pathogens, highlighting its limitations in this context.