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The appropriate treatment for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in healthy adults typically includes the use of macrolides, such as azithromycin or clarithromycin, or doxycycline. This treatment strategy is based on the most common pathogens responsible for CAP, which include Streptococcus pneumoniae and atypical bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydophila pneumoniae.

Macrolides are effective against both typical and atypical organisms, making them a cornerstone in the treatment of pneumonia. Doxycycline is also a preferred alternative due to its broad-spectrum activity and good side effect profile.

While other antibiotics listed may have their own specific uses, they are not considered first-line for uncomplicated CAP in otherwise healthy individuals. For instance, ciprofloxacin primarily targets gram-negative bacteria and is not typically used for CAP; vancomycin is mainly reserved for severe pneumonia cases where there is concern for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA); and piperacillin-tazobactam is more suitable for healthcare-associated infections or severe cases that require coverage for Pseudomonas aeruginosa or extended-spectrum beta-lactamases.

This focused approach allows for effective management of the most common pathogens seen in