Which antibiotic is the first-line treatment for Lyme disease in children under 8 years of age?

Amoxicillin is the preferred first-line treatment for Lyme disease in children under 8 years of age due to its safety profile and effectiveness. In young children, the use of doxycycline, while effective, is typically avoided because it can stain developing teeth and affect bone growth. Amoxicillin, being a penicillin-like antibiotic, is particularly suitable for this age group and effectively targets the causative agent of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi. Furthermore, it can be administered in a liquid formulation, making it more palatable for children.

Cefuroxime is also an effective alternative but is not as commonly used as amoxicillin in this age group due to the latter's favorable safety profile and ease of administration. Azithromycin is not considered first-line therapy for Lyme disease, as it is less effective against Borrelia species compared to amoxicillin. Overall, the choice of amoxicillin balances efficacy, safety, and ease of use, making it the ideal first-line treatment for pediatric Lyme disease.