Which drug is most commonly used first-line for treating folliculitis?

Clindamycin is commonly used as a first-line treatment for folliculitis, particularly when the condition is suspected to be caused by staphylococcal species, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Clindamycin's effectiveness against gram-positive bacteria makes it a suitable choice, especially for treating superficial skin infections where staphylococci are often implicated.

The drug works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which is crucial for bacterial growth and replication. In cases of folliculitis, topical formulations of clindamycin are frequently used, but oral formulations may be prescribed for more extensive infections or when topical application is not sufficient.

Other treatments, while effective in various circumstances, may not be the first choice for folliculitis. For instance, ciprofloxacin primarily targets gram-negative bacteria and is not typically used for skin infections caused by staphylococci. Metronidazole is generally utilized for anaerobic infections and certain protozoal infections, lacking the specific efficacy against the common pathogens involved in folliculitis. Cephalexin, a first-generation cephalosporin, can be used for skin infections but is not as widely prescribed as clindamycin specifically for folliculitis due to its