What is the preferred medication for a pregnant female diagnosed with Strep?

Amoxicillin is the preferred medication for a pregnant female diagnosed with a Group A Streptococcus (Strep) infection due to its safety profile and efficacy. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic that is considered safe for use during pregnancy and is effective against the bacteria commonly responsible for strep throat.

In pregnancy, determining the safety of medications is crucial, as many antibiotics may pose risks to fetal development. Amoxicillin has a long history of use in pregnant populations, with minimal evidence of adverse effects on both the mother and the fetus when prescribed appropriately.

Ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin are part of the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics, which is generally avoided in pregnancy due to potential risks, including effects on fetal development and cartilage formation. Nitrofurantoin, though used for urinary tract infections, is not first-line for strep infections and its use may be limited during certain stages of pregnancy due to concerns about hemolytic anemia in the newborn.

Therefore, for a pregnant woman diagnosed with a strep infection, the optimal choice is amoxicillin, making it the most appropriate and safest option available.