Pregnant Women without Evidence of Fetal Infection:
Early Pregnancy (less than 18 weeks):
- Spiramycin: This antibiotic is commonly used to treat toxoplasmosis during early pregnancy. It helps prevent congenital transmission of the infection to the fetus. Spiramycin is typically prescribed for 3-4 weeks.
Pregnant Women with Evidence of Fetal Infection:
- Pyrimethamine with Sulfadiazine and Folinic Acid: This combination therapy is used to treat congenital toxoplasmosis in the fetus. Pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine are antibiotics, while folinic acid is used to reduce the side effects of pyrimethamine on bone marrow function. Treatment typically lasts for 4-6 months or longer, depending on the severity of the infection.
Newborn Infants with Congenital Toxoplasmosis:
- Pyrimethamine with Sulfadiazine and Folinic Acid: This same combination therapy is used to treat newborns with congenital toxoplasmosis. Treatment is typically initiated as soon as possible after birth and continued for 12 months or longer, based on the severity of the infection and the infant's response.
Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are essential during treatment to assess the effectiveness of the medication, monitor for side effects, and track the development and health of the fetus or infant.