A pilot study on length of antibiotics for children hospitalized with pneumonia

This study looks at whether a shorter course of antibiotics works just as well as a longer course for young children who are hospitalized with a confirmed lung infection (pneumonia) and are starting to get better after initial IV treatment. Fewer days of antibiotics could mean faster recovery and fewer side effects. You may be eligible if: - Your child is between 3 months and 6 years old - Your child was admitted to hospital with pneumonia that started less than 7 days before admission - A chest X-ray shows a clear area of lung consolidation - After 48–72 hours of IV penicillin, your child has no fever, their breathing has improved, oxygen levels are above 92%, and they are ready to switch to oral antibiotics You may NOT be eligible if: - Your child has an underlying chronic illness such as bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, congenital heart disease, or an immune deficiency - Your child has a complicated pneumonia (with fluid around the lung, abscess, or requiring breathing support) - Your child has an infection outside the lungs requiring antibiotics (e.g., meningitis) - Your child is allergic to beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillin type) Talk to your doctor about whether this trial might be right for you.