Final answer:
The primary treatment for urethritis caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a combination of ceftriaxone and azithromycin to address potential co-infection with C. trachomatis and to counteract antibiotic resistance. Cephalosporins are the first choice for treatment, and partner treatment is also encouraged to prevent further spread of the infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment of Urethritis Caused by Neisseria
The drug of choice to treat urethritis caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacterium responsible for gonorrhea, has evolved due to increasing antibiotic resistance. Cephalosporins, particularly ceftriaxone, are the first choice for treatment. Additionally, because co-infection with Chlamydia trachomatis is common, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a combination regimen of ceftriaxone and azithromycin to cover both pathogens. Sexual partner treatment is also recommended to prevent reinfection and further spread of the infection.
Urethritis resulting from C. trachomatis infection can also be treated with either azithromycin or doxycycline. Erythromycin and fluoroquinolones are alternative options for patients who cannot take the first-line treatments.
It is critical to follow the CDC's updated guidelines for treating gonorrhea due to the rising concern over antibiotic resistance, especially since N. gonorrhoeae has shown signs of resistance to fluoroquinolones, tetracycline, cefixime, and even ceftriaxone in some cases. Combinatory therapy with two types of antibiotics, ceftriaxone and azithromycin, is currently recommended to counter this resistance and effectively control the spread of the disease.