Oral versus Intravenous Antibiotics for Endocarditis

This interactive editorial explores antibiotic treatment strategies for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis in a patient with active intravenous drug use. Two expert viewpoints are presented: one advocates for continued inpatient intravenous therapy citing pharmacokinetic reliability, traditional standards, and concerns over adherence; the other supports a switch to oral antibiotics if clinical stability is achieved, referencing the POET trial’s noninferiority findings and highlighting patient-centered care. The editorial emphasizes the importance of individualized decision-making and robust outpatient support systems when considering oral regimens for vulnerable populations.

This interactive editorial explores antibiotic treatment strategies for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis in a patient with active intravenous drug use. Two expert viewpoints are presented: one advocates for continued inpatient intravenous therapy citing pharmacokinetic reliability, traditional standards, and concerns over adherence; the other supports a switch to oral antibiotics if clinical stability is achieved, referencing the POET trial’s noninferiority findings and highlighting patient-centered care. The editorial emphasizes the importance of individualized decision-making and robust outpatient support systems when considering oral regimens for vulnerable populations.