What is the first-line empiric treatment for outpatient adult community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) without comorbidities?

In the context of treating outpatient adult community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) without comorbidities, the first-line empiric treatment typically involves the use of amoxicillin. Amoxicillin is effective against the most common pathogens responsible for CAP, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, and is well-tolerated, making it a preferred choice.

Dosing can often be at 1 g orally three times a day (TID), which effectively covers the majority of cases encountered in outpatient settings. Therefore, for adults with uncomplicated CAP without any chronic medical conditions or recent antibiotic use, amoxicillin serves as a robust and recommended option.

Other treatments listed, such as doxycycline or macrolides, may be used in certain patient populations or when specific pathogens are suspected, but they are not typically the first choice for uncomplicated cases. Cefepime, being a broad-spectrum cephalosporin, is generally reserved for more severe infections or specific clinical scenarios rather than routine outpatient management of CAP.