Eradication of β-haemolytic streptococci from the pharynx of healthy carriers with a single dose of ceftriaxone

Narrow-spectrum penicillins have traditionally been used for the eradication of Streptococcus pyogenes from the pharynx. However, both the oral and the parenteral preparations, including long acting penicillins, may not be effective. This study was aimed at evaluating tolerance and efficacy of ceftriaxone in eradicating pharyngeal group A beta -haemolytic streptococci in a group of healthy carriers, to determine whether this drug can be considered a valid alternative to penicillin G. A positive result for group A beta -haemolytic streptococci was obtained in 32 subjects, who were given a single intramuscular dose of 1 g ceftriaxone. Cultures were repeated at 48 h and 7 days after administration of the drug. The beta -haemolytic streptococci had been eradicated in all cases.