What type of antibiotic should be included in empiric antibiotic therapy?

In the context of empiric antibiotic therapy, the selection of antibiotics is crucial for effectively treating potential bacterial infections. Aminoglycosides are often included in empiric therapy due to their broad-spectrum activity against gram-negative bacteria, particularly those that are resistant to other antibiotics. They are particularly effective against serious infections and can be used in combination with other antibiotics to provide a synergistic effect.

Aminoglycosides, such as gentamicin and amikacin, are often chosen in settings where there's a need to cover for organisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Acinetobacter species, which are notorious for being multidrug-resistant. By utilizing an aminoglycoside in empiric therapy, healthcare providers can ensure a wider coverage of potentially harmful pathogens, especially in cases where the infection source is undetermined.

In contrast, while macrolides, tetracyclines, and cephalosporins have their own important roles in treating specific infections, they might not always provide the necessary coverage for the most problematic gram-negative organisms, thus making aminoglycosides a more strategic choice in many situations of empirical treatment.