Which medication is most likely prescribed prophylactically for a child with spina bifida who has a neurogenic bladder?

In the context of spina bifida and neurogenic bladder management, prophylactic treatment aims to prevent complications associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are common in individuals with neurogenic bladders due to impaired bladder function and incomplete emptying.

Sulfisoxazole is an antibiotic that is used specifically to prevent and treat bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections. In patients with neurogenic bladder, urinary retention and the presence of catheters can increase the risk of UTIs, making prophylactic antibiotic therapy beneficial in reducing this risk. By prescribing sulfisoxazole, healthcare providers aim to prevent infections that may lead to further complications for the child.

The other medications listed do not address the specific needs of a child with spina bifida and a neurogenic bladder in terms of infection prevention. Furosemide is a diuretic used primarily to manage conditions involving fluid overload, such as heart failure, and does not serve a prophylactic role against infections. Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to manage inflammation and autoimmune conditions but does not prevent UTIs. Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) is used for various conditions involving immune deficiency or autoimmune disorders, rather than for infection prevention in urinary tract cases.

Thus,