Syphilis Treatment and Care

Syphilis is curable with the right antibiotics.

What is the treatment for syphilis?

A single injection of long-acting Benzathine penicillin G can cure the early stages of syphilis. This includes primary, secondary, or early latent syphilis. CDC recommends three doses of long-acting Benzathine penicillin G at weekly intervals for late latent syphilis or latent syphilis of unknown duration. Treatment will cure the infection and prevent further damage, but it will not repair damage already done.

Selecting the right penicillin preparation is important to properly treat and cure syphilis. See the STI Treatment Guidelines for more information on syphilis treatment. The guidelines also include other options for those with a penicillin allergy.

People treated for syphilis should avoid sexual contact with new partners until their sores completely heal. They also should notify their sex partner(s), so they can receive testing and treatment if needed.

Treatment Guidelines and Updates

Resources for Clinicians

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