Which agent is a first-line treatment for plague?

The first-line treatment for plague is streptomycin, which is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. This classification of medication is particularly effective against the bacterium Yersinia pestis, the causative agent of plague. Streptomycin works by inhibiting protein synthesis in the bacteria, ultimately leading to cell death and resolution of the infection.

While other antibiotics such as doxycycline can also be used for plague, streptomycin has historically been regarded as a cornerstone therapy, especially during severe cases or in the presence of certain complications. The choice of streptomycin is supported by clinical guidelines and its proven efficacy in treating this serious infectious disease, making it the preferred option in many circumstances.

Doxycycline and amoxicillin may have roles in treating different infections, but they are not the first-line agents for plague. Chloramphenicol, while effective, is generally reserved for cases where other treatments may not be appropriate or available, usually due to its side effect profile and potential for adverse reactions. Therefore, streptomycin is the most appropriate and effective first-line treatment for plague due to its direct actions against the specific pathogen involved.