Which antibiotic is considered the drug of choice for Rocky Mountain spotted fever?

Doxycycline is identified as the drug of choice for treating Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) due to its effectiveness against the causative agent, Rickettsia rickettsii. This antibiotic belongs to the tetracycline class and has excellent penetration into tissues where the Rickettsia bacteria reside. Early treatment with doxycycline is crucial not only for treating RMSF but also for preventing severe complications, as the disease can progress rapidly and become life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Doxycycline is well-tolerated and has a favorable safety profile when used in the appropriate population, including adults and children aged eight years and older. Its ability to inhibit protein synthesis in bacteria effectively halts the growth of the organism causing RMSF, thus controlling the infection. In contrast, the other antibiotics listed do not have the same level of efficacy against Rickettsial infections and are not recommended for managing RMSF.