Which antibiotic is commonly used to treat Lyme disease?

Doxycycline is commonly used to treat Lyme disease due to its effectiveness against the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes the infection. This antibiotic belongs to the tetracycline class and is particularly useful in treating early localized and early disseminated stages of Lyme disease. Doxycycline works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, which is crucial for their growth and replication.

Additionally, it is favored because it is well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and has a favorable side effect profile for most patients. It has a credible efficacy in not only treating Lyme disease but also providing prophylaxis in certain high-risk situations, such as when tick exposure occurs in an endemic area.

The other antibiotics listed are not typically recommended for Lyme disease. Bactrim is primarily effective against a different spectrum of bacteria and is not the first choice for Lyme. Ganciclovir is an antiviral agent used predominantly for cytomegalovirus infections, and clindamycin is more effective against anaerobic infections and certain protozoal infections. Thus, the selection of doxycycline for Lyme disease treatment is based on its specific activity against the causative agent and its pharmacological properties.