Walking pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, and azithromycin. In general, the antibiotics are not necessary as the symptoms are mild and go away without any medical intervention.
Walking pneumonia, a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract shows symptoms that are similar to those linked with seasonal flu or common cold. In most cases, home remedies like taking sufficient rest and increasing fluid intake, can help to overcome this type of pneumonia. However, in few instances, antibiotics (mentioned below) may be recommended to treat this lung infection.
Tetracycline
The antibiotic stops bacterial growth by not allowing these microbes to produce proteins, essential for their existence. No wonder tetracycline is regarded as a weapon of mass destruction for Mycoplama pneumoniae species of bacteria. Although tetracyclines (doxycycline) is effective to get rid of this infection early, the medication is not prescribed for children below 8 years of age.
Clarithromycin (Biaxin)
This antibiotic available in 250 mg and 500 mg strength tablets is also considered to be a powerful remedy for this bacterial infection. Clarithromycin prevents bacterial growth from spreading as well as destroys the bacteria. Thus, this double action knocks out the infection within a short span of time.
Azithromycin (Zithromax)
More commonly known by its brand name Zithromax, this drug is equally effective in ‘defeating’ the infection. This antibiotic is well tolerable and works when taken as directed by the doctor. Its mechanism to eliminate the infection is similar to that of tetracylcline. As aforementioned, the proteins synthesized by these bacteria allows them to grow and multiply. Azithromycin halts the production of proteins, thereby closing their door of survival.
Erythromycin (E-Mycin)
In fact, off all the antibiotics, erythromycin is the most preferred to treat walking pneumonia. To combat this mild form of bacterial infection successfully, one can certainly rely on erythromycin.
Caution
There is no doubt that the aforementioned antibiotics are effective but as they are categorized as prescription medicines, so prior consultation with a qualified doctor is necessary before going to any medical store to buy these drugs. Antibiotics work only when taken in the right dosage. Taking the medication in large doses in an attempt to get rid of infection at the earliest, can make a person susceptible to some severe side effects. So, it is always wise to talk to a doctor first to know about the exact antibiotic dosage that works to overcome this infection safely.
On the whole, it won’t take long for this lung infection to ‘run away’ provided the antibiotics are taken as instructed by the doctor. Keep in mind that these antibiotics have always proved to be effective and so as such there is no need to hunt for alternative medicines to cure this type of pneumonia.
