Syphilis treatment options vary according to the stage, symptoms, the patient's age and general health, and whether allergies exist. Penicillin is the most commonly prescribed drug to treat syphilis, regardless of the stage, but damage already done to body organs cannot be reversed. Following successful syphilis treatment, people can still be susceptible to reinfection and must have followup tests.
Syphilis Treatment: An Introduction
The
syphilis treatment options will depend on:
Antibiotics Used in Syphilis Treatment
Penicillin is the preferred drug for treating all stages of syphilis. For early syphilis treatment, penicillin may be injected into the muscle. For late syphilis treatment, penicillin may be given through an IV, and may need to be administered in the hospital.
If a person is allergic to penicillin, the healthcare provider may give another antibiotic to take by mouth. A person is more likely to need repeat syphilis treatment if he or she gets an antibiotic other than penicillin.
Damage already done to body organs cannot be reversed.
Recommendations During Syphilis Treatment
While a person is receiving syphilis treatment, it is recommended that he or she:
- Avoid any sexual activity during this time. Sexual contact should be avoided until the syphilis sores are completely healed.
- All sexual partners should be notified so that they can be tested and treated if necessary.
- After syphilis treatment is complete, followup tests should occur at 6 months and 12 months. Some doctors recommend more frequent followup tests.
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