In certain situations other labs may be utilized because of their expertise in Lyme disease. These laboratories can sometimes provide a more accurate assessment of whether or not Lyme disease is present by using a test called the Western Blot in addition to the most accurate testing of titers. These special lab services are often not covered by many insurance companies. The medicine may be Amoxicillin, Penicillin, Doxycycline, or Tetracycline. Sometimes another antibiotic will be used depending on the age of your child and his or her history of drug allergies.
Treatment is usually for one month.
Intravenous antibiotics are only required for the more severe symptoms of the chronic stages. The great majority of patients respond to one round of treatment, a patient may actually feel worse as the Lyme spirochetes are destroyed and the toxin released into the bloodstream. For some patients this can last the entire month. The decision to retreat a patient or to hospitalize for intravenous antibiotics is a decision made by the physician and decisions are made individually. Even patients who are completely treated with one course of antibiotics can have symptoms up to six months after treatment.